in New York City in New York City - New York City Department of ...

Outdoors
in New York City
THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER 2008
in New York City
Includes
PULLOUT CALENDAR OF
URBAN PARK RANGER
FREE PROGRAMS
INSIDE...
4 ALLEY POND PARK
ADVENTURE COURSE &
FAMILY CAMPING
5 CENTRAL PARK ZOO
EDUCATION
6 COOL TO COMPOST
13 THE LIVING LOG
14 JAMAICA BAY WILDLIFE
REFUGE
© Photo: Daniel Avila / NYC Parks & Recreation

2 CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS
Message from: Sarah Aucoin, Director, Urban Park Rangers
It’s summer time in the City. School’s out,
and for many, this is the perfect time to plan
a get-away. From overnight camping trips
to day trips to the beach, everyone enjoys
an opportunity to escape the City’s summer
heat and spend some quality time outdoors.
When I was a child, my family would leave
the city and spend a week camping and
exploring the local beaches in coastal New
England. I had friends who went to sleep
away camp and came home with tales
of canoeing lakes, exploring creeks, and
roasting marshmallows. I am sure many of
you have similar memories, or are looking
for an opportunity to create similar memories with your family today.
What if I told you that it was possible to create these memories right here in
New York City? That it was possible to canoe lakes, explore creeks, and roast
marshmallows without ever actually leaving the City? There are many good
reasons to take a more local approach to your outdoor adventures this summer.
With skyrocketing transportation costs, staying here in the City can save you
and your family a bundle. And you don’t have to sacrice on adventure: you can
sleep under the stars in Central Park; reach the top of a 45 foot climbing wall in
Queens at Alley Pond Park; canoe to an oshore island in Brooklyn at Marine
Park; use a map and compass to hike the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail in the Bronx
at Van Cortlandt Park; catch frogs in Staten Island at Blue Heron Park. There’s
fun for everyone and every age; from Junior Ranger Summer Day Camps to sand
castle building contests, there are numerous ways to create a lifetime of outdoor
summer memories without roaming beyond the City limits.
Outdoor News
HUNDREDS OF NEW YORKERS NAVIGATE THE
WATERS AT THE 9TH ANNUAL AMAZING BRONX
RIVER FLOTILLA
Five-Mile Canoe Procession Kicks O Paddling
Season, Celebrates Revitalization of Bronx River
On May 10th, Commissioner Adrian Benepe, New
York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Commissioner Pete Grannis, Council Member Oliver
Koppell, Assemblyman Jerey Dinowitz, Chair of
the Bronx River Alliance Joan Byron, Bronx River
Administrator/Executive Director of the Bronx River
Alliance Linda Cox, and over 200 paddlers navigated
ve miles down the New York City portion of the Bronx
River in the 9th Annual Amazing Bronx River Flotilla.
The otilla symbolized the ocial start to paddling
season along the Bronx River and celebrated the
ongoing renewal of the river’s ecological health.
With $70 million in park and greenway construction
and natural area restoration in progress, the Bronx
River will soon be a major recreational and ecological
resource for city residents.
The otilla of nearly 80 canoes and kayaks launched
on Bronx River from Shoelace Park at 219th Street in
Olinville, oated past the newly renovated $1.4 million
River Park and Concrete Plant Park which is under
a $10 million renovation, and nished three hours
later down river at Hunts Point Riverside Park, where
an afternoon picnic celebration was underway and
enthusiastic crowds greeted the paddlers.
The Bronx River is believed to be a pre-glacial stream
whose course has been reshaped and modied over
time. Historically, the river has suered from ooding,
erosion, and habitat loss. Since the 1990’s the river has
been restored back to ecological health and today,
the Bronx River Corridor is home to more than 250
thriving species of native ora such as pin oak, river
birch, and white snakeroot, and native fauna, including
the mallard, muskrat, and beaver. The Bronx River is
also a popular paddling site. Parks and the Bronx River
Alliance oer free, seasonal canoe programs open to
the public.
In an eort to “green” the river and its surrounding
areas, Parks is in the midst of creating the Bronx River
Greenway, an eight-mile long bike and pedestrian
pathway that will increase public access to the
river and provide enhanced waterfront recreational
opportunities in the Bronx.
The Bronx River Alliance stewards the river and
was awarded a 2007 Bank of America Neighborhood
Builder Award for their eorts eorts and accomplishments
in the river’s restoration. The Alliance oers oers public
canoeing trips down the Bronx River. For more
information, visit www.bronxriver.org.
Traveling home to the Bronx the other day, my ve year old son looked out at
the Meadowlands and said “that looks like a beautiful place to swim, doesn’t it
Momma?” While he might not be able to swim there (yet), he knows what many of
us should spend this summer learning: although we live in one of the largest and
most dense metropolitan areas in the country we can still expect, and nd, great
outdoor adventures right outside our doorsteps.
© Illustration: Anne Yen
IN THIS ISSUE:
2 . . . MESSAGE FROM: SARAH AUCOIN,
DIRECTOR, URBAN PARK RANGERS
2 . . . OUTDOOR NEWS: 9TH ANNUAL
BRONX RIVER FLOTILLA
3 . . . RANGER IN THE SPOTLIGHT!
3 . . . KIDS’ KORNER: BEES
4 . . . FREE PARK “ED-VENTURES”
THIS SUMMER
4 . . . HERP CORNER:
RED-BACKED SALAMANDER
5 . . . CENTRAL PARK ZOO EDUCATION
6 . . . COMPOSTING & SUSTAINABILITY
13. . . THE LIVING LOG
13. . . MAN’S BEST FRIEND
14 . . JAMAICA BAY WILDLIFE REFUGE
PULLOUT SECTION:
7-12 URBAN PARK PA P RK RANGER RA
CALENDAR R OF O OF
EVENTS
© THE FREE NEWSPAPER R OF O OF
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
ADVENT
Outdoors
Outdoors
in in New New York York City
City
Planning Sarah Aucoin, Director
Editorial Matt Symons, Deputy Director
Operations Richard Simon, Captain
Programs Marta Arroyo, Program Manager
Graphic Design Elizabeth Green, Graphic Artist
Research Shalini Beath
Urban Park Rangers • 1234 Fifth Avenue • New York City 10029

URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 3
RaNgeR IN The spoTlIghT
unwanted pet in What is your favorite park? Why?
the park is not only
illegal, but cruel
to the animal. The
survival instinct of
a domestic animal
is pretty much
non-existent when
compared to wild
It’s no contest; Alley Pond Park. It’s heavily wooded
and is home to a variety of animals, including great
horned owls, raccoons, and a rare species of human
that lacks the opposable thumb to successfully hold on
to dog leashes. Hiking through Alley Pond Park is a very
nice escape from the busy and loud city life, and it’s
never very crowded which makes it all the better.
animals, so it will As a Park Ranger, what is your message to the people
usually die or be of NYC?
killed by a predator
fairly quickly. Just
drop your pet off
at Animal Care &
Control or the ASPCA
if you don’t want it.
Treat the city parks as if they were your own backyard.
Keep the parks clean, be respectful of other people, and
enjoy yourself. In general, I don’t think enough people
in the city utilize city parks, so get out here already!
Anything else you would like us to know about you?
You’ll save not only I haven’t done it in a few years, but I really enjoy
the animal’s life, but a SCUBA diving, especially exploring wrecks. The water is
Ranger’s time as well. too cold up here and the visibility is bad, but I’m going
to get back to the Caribbean eventually. I have a twin
What is your favorite sister named Katie. I’ve also broken 13 bones in my life.
park activity?
In college, I tried out for Jeopardy! When I was four I ate
AN INTERVIEW WITH QUEENS URBAN PARK RANGER,
ANDREW DiSALVO.
I’m big into photography, so I try to carry my camera
with me wherever I go. I also like canoeing. You really
feel detached from the city when you are out on the
water. It’s a nice perspective.
corn on the cob for the first time and I ate everything,
not knowing that you were supposed to throw out the
cob. In my free time I look for American bullfrogs at
Strack Pond in Forest Park. Need I go on?
Where were you born? Where have you lived?
I was born in North Tarrytown, NY, which oddly
enough doesn’t exist today, so maybe I’m just a
figment of your imagination. Actually, North Tarrytown
is currently Sleepy Hollow. I’ve lived in Hastings-on-
Hudson, NY; Rochester, NY; Chestnut Hill, MA;
St. Thomas, USVI; and Brooklyn, NY.
When did you start working with the Urban Park
Rangers?
My first day on the job was at Central
Communications on February 5, 2007. I worked there
for two days, then bounced to Central Park for four
days, then bounced to Salt Marsh Nature Center for five.
After getting the sense that no one liked me, I began
attending the training academy on Randall’s Island.
Following the training academy, I was assigned to
Forest Park. I’ve been at Forest Park for over a year, so
chances are the people here enjoy my company.
Why did you become an Urban Park Ranger?
For starters, sitting in an office is not for me. I tried it
one summer and I was very uncomfortable. So, upon
returning from a teaching stint in the Caribbean, I
looked for jobs in the outdoors and came upon this one.
My background in education and science make this job
a very good fit. Nothing beats patrolling through a park
on a nice spring day.
What are your responsibilities as a Park Ranger?
The primary responsibility is education. I educate
the public not only on weekend programs and during
weekly school programs, but also if I am on routine
patrol through a park. It’s rewarding to share my
knowledge with others and know that they’ll likely pass
it on to friends and family. Education gives people a
better understanding and appreciation of the natural
world. I also conduct law enforcement patrols, making
sure all the animals and people in the park are safe.
Lastly, I occasionally rescue animals. Those include
everything from your typical dogs to red-tailed hawks!
What is the most interesting thing that you have
encountered or experienced as a Ranger?
Recently someone decided to release his or her pet
ferret in Forest Park. Of course the ferret had no idea
where to go or what to do because it was a domestic
animal, so it decided to crawl into a sewer by the golf
course. I, of course, had to rescue it. You don’t get calls
for ferrets too often, so it was a tricky but rewarding
rescue because ferrets are pretty awesome animals.
Just a note to New York City residents: releasing an
Kids' Korner!
By Bonnie mcguire, urban Park ranger Sergeant
Take a look at some flowers this summer and chances
are you will see some bees, wasps, and flies. Do they all
look the same? The wasps are the ones that are long
and slender, like a hot dog. Bees and flies are usually
more round, like a hamburger. Many flies have the same
black/ yellow colors of bees, but flies only have 2 wings
and their antenna are hard to see. Bees have four wings
and have antennae that are elbowed like a boomerang
There are many types of bees, almost 200 different
species, in the New York City area. Most of these are
very small and are solitary, meaning they live alone.
They can’t sting, which is what bees are typically known
for. Instead these solitary bees collect pollen, nectar
to feed their your larvae (baby bees). Solitary bees are
important pollinators. They fly into a flower looking for
nectar and get covered with pollen. As they fly from
flower to flower, they move the pollen around, enabling
the flowers to create seeds and make more flowers.
One of the most well known bees is the European
honey bee. It’s a medium sized bee, about as big as a
kidney bean and is orange / brown in color. Honey bees
make honey, which is a combination of nectar, water,
and bee spit. These bees are social, they live together
in big family units with a queen
(mom), and 30,00-45,000 worker
bees (sisters) all in the same hive
(house). Each bee has her own job to do
in the hive. Some bees take care of the larvae, making
sure they have enough to eat and are clean. Other bees
spend their day cleaning out the hive. Some bees have
to guard the door against invaders and other bees are
responsible for collecting food and water. There are
even some bees who just take care of the queen bee.
Sometimes if it gets a little crowded a group of bees
leave the hive to look for a new home. This is called
swarming. Don’t be afraid though, swarming bees don’t
have a home to protect, so they’re not likely to sting.
Honey bees only sting to defend themselves or their
family or hive. And when bees sting, they die. We all
know the bees can’t talk. So how do they tell each other
where the food is? They dance! That’s right, they shake
their…abdomens. If it’s a really good food with lots of
nectar and pollen, there is a really fast dance called a
waggle dance. For food that’s not so good, it’s a slow
waaaaaggggglllleee.
So tomorrow, dance around really fast if you’re about to
have a good lunch!
The bouNTy oF FRee
IN TImes oF eCoNomIC FRugalITy
By Denyse mcAlpin
Great, the title of this article has drawn your attention.
Now I can take the time to highlight FREE offerings the
Urban Park Rangers have for you.
More than ever before, you can take advantage of our
free programs. For starters, we have a number of Ranger
led Explorer events offered in all five boroughs. They
cover all the areas you’ve wished and hoped to explore
within 29,000 acres of New York City parkland. Entertain
your adventurous side with canoeing, high and low
adventure course offerings, hiking trails, biking, family
camping, learning orienteering, and identifying species
of living plants and animals in your urban environs.
With capacity enrollment in our Junior Ranger Day
Camp 2008, we have seen interest and participation
in our program offerings increase with the decrease in
consumer discretionary funds. We warmly invite you to
join us!
Educators and home schoolers of levels K through 8:
inquire at your local Nature Center in order to book an
offering from our award winning The Natural Classroom
series; a fun, hands on learning experience taught by
Rangers in the classroom or park setting.

4 CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS
Alley Pond Park Adventure & Family Camping
In Northeastern Queens
Camping
City of New York
Parks & Recreation
Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor
Adrian Benepe, Commissioner
www.nyc.gov/parks
Night Hikes Cookout
Adventure Course
By mara Pendergrass,
urban Park ranger Sergeant
Warm sun, blue sky, furnace-blast breezes
coming off the streets- ah, summer in New
York City! It’s the perfect time to get away
from all the concrete and glass and escape
into the trees in search of leaf litter and
cool, damp soil, and all the little creepycrawlies
that inhabit it. In amongst the ants,
beetles, worms, centipedes, and roly-polies, you
stand a good chance of finding one of their
main predators, an odd little lungless, lightphobic
amphibian known as the red-backed
salamander.
Yes, you read it right — I said lungless. The
red-backed salamander belongs to the family
Plethodontidae, the largest of the salamander
families found in the U.S., grouped so because
none of them has lungs. All the air they need
gets absorbed through their skin. Consequently,
none of this family get very big; the northern
red- backed salamander, Plethodon cinereus,
tops out at 5 inches, and as an adult can
be as small as 2 1/2 inches. They are long,
slender creatures with stubby legs and smooth,
slimy, dark gray - to dark brown-colored skin
with a black and white, salt-and-pepper type
mottling on the belly. There are two dorsal
color varieties, the red-backed phase and the
lead-backed phase; the red-backed variety has
a dorsal stripe that is usually red, but can be
yellow, pink, orange, or gray; the lead-backed
variety lacks the stripe. Both varieties can be
found in New York City parks. The species as
a whole is common and widespread, and can
be found in cool, moist coniferous, mixed, and
Canoeing
Families! Free, Free, Free
Overnight camping Fridays and Saturdays in July and August.
SUNDAY SPECIAL! Experience the adventure course on
Sundays from May to November.
Visit www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers for more information.
Program Date
Reservation Date
To camp on July 4 or 5 Call on Mon. June 30
To camp on July 11 or 12 Call on Mon. July 7
To camp on July 18 or 19 Call on Mon. July 14
To camp on July 25 or 26 Call on Mon. July 21
To camp on August 1 or 2 Call on Mon. July 28
To camp on August 8 or 9 Call on Mon. August 4
To camp on August 15 or 16 Call on Mon. August 11
Call after 9 a.m on reservation day.
School / Youth Groups!
Low-cost adventure program with various elements. Choose from the following:
•High / low ropes adventure course
•Canoeing / fishing / orienteering
•Campouts
If you are interested in booking an Alley Pond Park Adventure Program,
or to register for family camping please call 718.217.6034.
City of New York
Parks & Recreation
Urban Park Rangers
hardwood forests from the Carolinas to Nova
Scotia, and as far west as eastern Minnesota.
Being lungless isn’t the only thing that makes
this salamander unique; it is in fact completely
terrestrial, including the egg and larval stages.
Every two years a female will find a male
and go through an elaborate mating ceremony
during which the male will deposit a little sac
of sperm that the female retrieves and uses
to fertilize her eggs internally. She then lays
a cluster of 6-12 eggs in June or July in a
cavity under a stone or inside a rotting log,
and coils around to tend them until they hatch
about two months later -- a level of care
unusual in the amphibian world. To top it off,
the little salamanders, unlike most amphibians,
come out looking like little salamanders and
not tadpoles! They mature in two years, ready
to start this most unusual of amphibian cycles
again.
Because they breathe exclusively through
their skins, they have to keep themselves
moist; the only time they will venture out from
Free park “ed-ventures” this summer!
In addition to all the wonderful activities listed in the Urban Park Ranger events
calendar, this summer the Rangers are offering MORE! Weekdays in the summer,
bring the kids to parks around the city for drop-in programs. Kids love earning
their Nature Detective badge as they explore the “wild” side of parks with the
Rangers. Scavenger hunts, micro-safaris, “tree-mendous” hikes, and other wildlife
experiences await!
Bronx
Crotona Park: Wednesday - Friday, programs at 11am and 2pm, locations vary
orchard Beach: Wednesday - Friday, programs at 11am and 2pm, Pelican Bay
Playground (section 2)
van Cortlandt Park: Wednesday - Friday, programs at 11am and 2pm, Southwest
Playground (Van Cortlandt Park South and Broadway)
Brooklyn
Fort greene Park: Wednesday - Friday, programs at 11am and 3pm, locations vary
marine Park: Thursday, programs at 11am and 3pm; Wednesday and Friday,
programs at 3pm, locations vary
owl’s head Park: Wednesday and Friday, programs at 3pm, locations vary
Prospect Park: Wednesday - Friday, programs at 11am and 3pm, locations vary
Manhattan
Central Park: Monday - Friday, programs at 11am and 3pm, locations vary
Inwood hill Park: Monday - Friday, programs at 11am and 3pm, locations vary
riverside Park: Wednesday, programs at 11am and 3pm, locations vary
Queens
Forest Park: Wednesday - Friday, programs at 11am and 2pm, locations vary
Fort totten: Wednesday, programs at 11am, Meet at entrance to Fort Totten, north
of intersection of 212 St. & Cross Island Pkwy. (July only)
kissena Park: Wednesday through Friday, programs at 11am and 2pm, Meet
behind Kissena Playschool, near 164th Street and Oak Ave.
rockaway Beach: Wednesday through Friday, programs at 11am and 2pm, Meet
at B. 59th Street and the Boardwalk
For more information, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers.
T H E H E R P C O R N E R - T H E R E D - B A C K E D S A L A M A N D E R
their logs or leaf litter is on damp or rainy
nights when they roam far and wide in search
of insects. The best bet for anyone hoping
to find these little creatures, will be after
a good rain when they will still be near the
surface hiding under rocks, logs, boards, and
whatever else is convenient. Rooting gently
through the leaf litter will also bring results.
Possibly one of the most amazing things about
the red-backed salamander is how easy it is to
find them in New York City; they are present
in all five boroughs, sometimes in the most
unexpected places. Wherever there is a patch
of undisturbed, moist vegetation you stand a
good chance of finding them. I once found a
colony alongside the Jerome Park Reservoir
across from the Bronx High School of Science!
And for those who are really interested, or
who are uncertain about turning over logs
looking for salamanders and possibly coming
face to face with a brown or garter snakethere
are ongoing research projects run by the
Department of Parks & Recreation’s Natural
Resources Group, that track salamanders in
several parks throughout the city.
Just remember that these salamanders are
fragile creatures and must be handled with
extreme care. Do not hold them for long
periods of time, and return them where you
found them as soon as possible. If you have
bug spray or sunscreen on your hands don’t
touch them at all; they are very sensitive to
chemicals.
Take only pictures; leave only footprints;
and leave your parks better than you found
them!

URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 5
Central park Zoo education
By Alison Saltz, theater outreach Coordinator and
Bonnie Bromberg, Elementary Education Instructor
Central Park Zoo Education Department
THE CENTRAL PARK ZOO OFFERS A VARIETY OF
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNGSTERS
OF ALL AGES WITH OUR
ONSITE ZOO SCHOOL PROGRAMS AND OUR
TRAVELING OUTREACH PROGRAM.
Summer season is here which for many New York City
children means activities such as hitting the pool,
enjoying ice cream, and going to camp. The Central Park
Zoo hosts many camp visitors over the summer months,
however what many camp directors don’t realize is that
the Central Park Zoo offers educational opportunities
that travel directly to the camp’s front door.
Wildlife Theater is the Wildlife Conservation Society’s
outreach program. They travel to all 5 boroughs plus
communities north of the city, and parts of Long Island
and New Jersey. If a camp group is planning to visit
the Central Park Zoo a Wildlife Theater experience
can enhance the “pre- or post-zoo” experience. Or if
traveling is not an option for the campers a Wildlife
Theater experience can be a fun treat.
The audience participatory, 30-45 minute, auditorium or
classroom-sized shows, cover a diverse range of topics
including the animals and ecosystems of the rain forest
and the polar regions as well as insects and other basic
animal concepts. The programs utilize a combination of
drama, puppetry, and music to make summer learning
fun. It’s geared for children in grades pre-Kindergarten
through 4th grade.
Stephanie Katzman, Nursery School Camp Director,
at Rhinelander Mini-Camp booked her third Wildlife
Theater camp visit in three years. Every camp week is a
different theme so Wildlife Theater visits during Animal
Week. She says, “Because of the Animal Adventures
Medley program we actually tied in the theme of the
week based on what Wildlife Theater performed. We
have what they do as a performance and then we tie
it in with our art projects, readings, and activities. It’s
interactive and with music and the kids get up and
participate so they are not watching a video or just
sitting. It’s interactive learning and it’s a great way to
start a given theme. And then we tie it in to a Central
Park Zoo visit.”
Some of the more popular programs with camp
directors are from the Wildlife Theater classroom series.
Directors can add a touch of the tropics to the camp
day with a visit from the Youcan the Toucan puppet
and experience a unique introduction to the rain forest
using the five senses in the Sense of the Rain Forest
Adventure. In Petunia Penguin Goes to School campers
are transformed into a team of Antarctic scientists and
a giant, talking penguin demonstrates the adaptations
that help these birds survive the harsh polar habitat.
Another camp option is learning basic animal concepts
such as animal shapes, sounds, locomotion, and
metamorphosis in the puppet-filled Animal Adventures
Medley.
For more information on the Wildlife Theater
camp-friendly programming check out
www.wcs.org/wildlifetheater, email asaltz@wcs.org,
or call 212.439.6540.
Also, if a parent is looking for a fun family program,
check out about the Central Park Zoo’s General
Audience Programs. The fall/winter session of programs
will be listed on their website in September at
www.nyzoosandaquarium.com/czeducation. Exciting
School Programs with live animals are also available
for preschool and elementary classes. You can watch
the two videos on their website to find out more
information.
above photo: © Julie larsen maher / wildlife Conservation society
above photo: ©suzanne bolduc / wildlife Conservation society
above photo: ©suzanne bolduc / wildlife Conservation society

6 CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS
Cool to Compost
By Bonnie mcguire, urban Park ranger Sergeant
Out of all the garbage that New Yorkers throw away,
approximately 27% of it is food waste, yard trimmings,
and compostable paper. On a city scale, only the yard
trimmings can be collected and composted costeffectively.
However, everyone can do their part to
reduce the amount of garbage they create. Consider
a compost bin, a small container that can be kept in a
community garden or backyard. A lot of different items
can be put into a compost bin, but there is a delicate
balance to make the compost develop best. There are
“greens” that have a considerable amount of water
and “browns” that are relatively dry. Balancing the two
will keep your decomposers happy and prevent the
formation of mold. The following is a short list of do’s and
don’ts (a complete list can be found at the NYC Compost
Project website at www.nyccompost.org):
Sustainability
By David hurd, Director of the office of recycling
outreach and Education for Council on the
Environment of NyC
In July 2006, the City Council passed Mayor
Bloomberg’s landmark Solid Waste Management Plan
to improve the way the City manages solid waste after
the closing of the Fresh Kills Landfill in 2001. The plan’s
benefits include reducing the environmental impacts
associated with shipping solid waste by truck, the
adoption and enforcement of borough self-sufficiency
in the handling of waste, and a renewed emphasis on
recycling and waste reduction.
The Office of Recycling Outreach and Education
(OROE), a program of the Council on the Environment
the following is a short list of these items.
the list in its entirety can be found at the NyC Compost Project website at www.nyccompost.org
DO NOT PUT IN THE BIN
• Cat litter and dog waste
• Dairy products
• Fish and meat scraps
• Fats, oils, and grease
• Invasive weeds
• Weeds with seeds
• Diseased plants
• Dead animals
• Sand
• Glossy or colored paper
• Large branches
• Coal and charcoal ash
© photo: www .joalmorris .com
of New York City (CENYC), was created as part of the
Solid Waste Management Plan in order to implement
a grassroots, community district approach to recycling
education. OROE provides “hands-on” outreach to
promote reuse, waste prevention, composting, and
recycling with the goal of increasing public awareness
of, and participation in, New York City’s residential
recycling program. The Office of Recycling Outreach
and Education is also expanding opportunities to
recycle materials that are not currently designated in
the City’s residential recycling program.
Each day in New York City twelve thousand tons of
waste is collected from residents, delivered to transfer
stations, loaded on to long haul trucks or rail cars for
disposal in incinerators or landfills in other states. New
Yorkers only recycle half of the bottles, cans, paper, and
other items that are acceptable in the city’s residential
recycling program.
PUT IN THE BIN
greens
• Fruit and vegetable scraps
• Coffee grounds
• Tea bags
• Dry grains
• Fresh leaves and green plants
• Grass clippings
• Flower bouquets
Browns
• Dry leaves
• Nut shells
• Corn stalks
• Straw and hay
• Newspaper
• Shredded paper
• Egg shells
• Old potting soils
So, why compost? For starters, it produces a
wonderful, nutrient rich soil that you can use in gardens
and houseplants. It also reduces the amount of waste
that is produced and needs to be shipped to other states’
landfills, thus reducing the amount the city is paying to
do this. And if you’re into it, you can find a whole variety
of decomposers such as beetles, millipedes, centipedes,
sow bugs, and many others. A compost bin opens up a
whole new world for discovery.
Should you not have a place for a compost bin, or
are unwilling to haul your food waste to a community
garden, don’t worry, you can start a worm bin! Worms are
wonderful little creatures that will eat 1/3 of their weight
in food scraps every day. Worm bins can be easily kept
in a small apartment as they don’t take up a lot of space.
Simply add some water, don’t let them get too hot or
cold, and keep feeding them fruit and vegetable scraps.
After a little while, you will have worm castings to add to
your potted plants or garden.
Oh, and don’t worry, neither the compost bin nor the
worm bin smell bad. They are both easy to keep, and
reduce the amount of waste we throw away.
Check out the website at www.nyccompost.org or visit
the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation website at
www.nyc.gov/parks to view opportunities to learn more
about composting and recycling.
Join the Urban Park Rangers to learn more
about composting. See the calendar for
details.
Staten Island July 6 Blue Heron Park
Staten Island September 7 Blue Heron Park
Diverting materials from landfills and incinerators
reduces greenhouse gasses that cause global warming.
Recycling conserves both natural and economic
resources. For each piece of paper, metal can, glass
jar, and plastic bottle that is recycled, an equivalent
natural resource is preserved. The demand for recycled
commodities is rising. Paper, cardboard, metal, and
plastic are commanding record prices as feedstock for
new products.
The Office of Recycling Outreach and Education
offers free services to New York City residents to assist
them in creating an environmentally sustainable city.
Services include presentations that show how to create
effective recycling programs in residential buildings.
Visit the Council on the Environment on the web at
www.cenyc.org.

Outdoors in New New York York City
City
Urban Park Rangers
exploReR pRogRams
Active Conservation
Help us improve hiking trails, remove invasive plants,
monitor animal populations, or plant native wildflowers.
Bring water, a snack, and wear work clothes.
Artistic Expression
Amateur and experienced artists and craftspeople
encouraged to attend. Craft, sketching, and writing
materials provided, but bring your own camera for
photography programs.
Birding
The Urban Park Rangers will teach you everything you
need to know to get started and try out your new skills
on the trails. Each program highlights different bird types
and special park areas for bird. Look for seasonal hi-lites.
Camping
Bring a flashlight; a tent (some are available to
borrow); bedding; and dinner. Some programs require
RESERVATIONS. This is noted in the listing, along
with instructions. Space is limited!
Canoeing
Get wet with the Urban Park Rangers and learn to
canoe. In no time, you’ll be paddling like a pro and ready
for adventure. First-come, first-served, unless otherwise
noted. Bring a hat, water, sunscreen, and a snack. Ages
8 and up. Be prepared to get wet/dirty.
RANGER STATIONS &
NATURE CENTERS
BRONX
Crotona Nature Center, seasonal (CNC): Crotona Park. Enter the
park at Charlotte St. & Crotona Park East. 718.885.3466
orchard Beach Nature Center, seasonal (oBNC): Pelham Bay Park.
Section 2 of Orchard Beach. 718.885.3466
Pelham Bay Ranger Station (PBRS): Pelham Bay Park. Bruckner
Blvd. & Wilkinson Ave. 718.885.3467
Van Cortlandt Nature Center (VCNC): Van Cortlandt Park. Enter
the park at W. 246th St. & Broadway. 718.548.0912
WEDNEsDAys, ThURsDAys, AND FRIDAys
Nature’s Playground / Riverside Park 11 a.m.–3 p.m. / River Run
Playground, enter the park at 83rd Street
The Urban Park Rangers invite you to attend weekly naturethemed
programs geared towards youngsters and children of all
ages. Come fly with the birds, or make your own bug. Each day
will be filled with different fantastic activities.
WEDNEsDAys IN JULy - AUGUsT
Fishing Factoids / Central Park 1 p.m. / Meet outside the Dana
Discovery Center
Would you like to learn how to fish in the Meer? Let the Urban
Park Rangers and Central Park Conservancy show you the proper
methods and techniques, as we explore/learn about the ecology
of the Meer and some fantastic solutions set in place to protect it.
FRIDAys IN JULy - AUGUsT
Nature’s Playground / Riverside Park 3 p.m. /Morningside
Playground (enter 120th Street)
The Urban Park Rangers invite you to attend weekly naturethemed
programs geared towards youngsters and children of all
ages. Come fly with the birds, or make your own bug. Each day
will be set with different fantastic activities.
July
Friday, July 4
Manhattan
Canoeing / Inwood Hill Park 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. /
Meet at boat dock next to nature center Celebrate your
independence by canoeing freely on the marsh. Great for
the whole family, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
Enjoy views of the bay, Throgs Neck Bridge, and the old
fort, all from the water, as you learn the basics of canoeing
skills and safety. Ages 8 and up. To register, please call
718.352.1769 on the Monday prior to the program.
saturday, July 5
Bronx
Birding Club / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Once a
month, every month, come bird with us! Bring your own
binoculars.
AMeRICAN ReVoluTIoN WeekeND:
Washington’s Troops on the Hill / Van Cortlandt Park 11
a.m. / VCNC As part of our tribute to our nation, join the
Rangers for an exploration of the park, as we discuss the
Bronx’ role in the Revolution.
AMeRICAN ReVoluTIoN WeekeND:
Hike To Glover’s Rock / orchard Beach 1 p.m. / oBNC See
listing above.
www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers SUMMER 2008 7
Exhibits, Lectures and Films
Enjoy art, movies and lectures highlighting
local talent, natural science and history.
Learn from the experts in their fields.
Kids Activities
Join the Urban Park Rangers for a variety of childrencentered
activities. Nature crafts, sing-a-longs, play
dates, storytime and more!
History
Come hear the fantastic stories our parks have to tell.
Hiking
Come on a program. Adventure and leisure hikes, nature
and historic walks and tours, orienteering and more in
every borough.
Fishing
Bring your own pole (some are available to
borrow). Freshwater: bait provided; catch-andrelease
fishing only. Saltwater: bait provided.
BROOKLYN
Salt Marsh Nature Center (SMNC): Marine Park. East 33rd St. &
Avenue U. 718.421.2021
Fort Greene Visitor Center (FGVC) : Fort Greene Park. Enter the
park at Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park. 718.722.3218
MANHATTAN
Belvedere Castle (BC): Central Park. 79th St., mid-park.
212.628.2345
Dana Discovery Center (DDC): Central Park.
110th St. & Lenox Ave. 212.860.1376
Inwood Hill Nature Center (IHNC): Inwood Hill Park. Enter park
at W. 218th St. & Indian Road. 212.304.2365
saturday, July 5 cont’d
The Reel Deal / Crotona Park 2 p.m. / CNC Come on by
for fishing in newly restored Indian Lake, while learning all
about our underwater neighbors.
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
living log / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Picnic House
(Prospect Park West at 3 St.) Find out how much life there
is in that “dead” log on the side of the trail on this discovery
hike with the Rangers.
History on the Hill / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC
Celebrate Independence Day with a guided tour of historic
Fort Greene Park and discover the role this park played in
the American Revolution.
Ponderous Ponds / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Meet at the
Audubon Center What animals and organisms live in the
ponds of Prospect Park? Join us as we explore with nets and
magnifiers to find out.
urban Beekeeping / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Find out
what the buzzzz is about. Discover what it takes to maintain
beehives in NYC, taste some NYC honey, and make a
beeswax craft.
Birding for kids / Fort Greene Park 3 p.m. / FGVC Bring
the kids to the park for a day of birding by sight and song
watching. Children 12 and under. Limited number of
children’s binoculars available.
Manhattan
lights, Camera, Central Park / Central Park 1 p.m. / Meet
at park entrance north side of 60th street, just west of
Fifth Ave. Summer blockbuster season is in full swing. Test
your movie trivia knowledge as we walk through the park’s
best-known movie locations.
Nightlife Highlights / Fort Tryon Park 8:30 p.m. / Meet
at Margaret Corbin Circle (just north of 190 St. and Fort
Washington Ave.) Explore the park in search of fireflies and
other denizens of the dark. Bring a flashlight and your sense
of adventure.
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.
SoARING SeRIeS:
kissena Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Rose and oak Aves. Enjoy
birds of prey crafts, owl pellet dissection, and talon painting
SoARING SeRIeS:
Forest Park 12 p.m. / FPVC Come search for and learn
about birds of prey with the Urban Park Rangers!
SoARING SeRIeS:
Rockaway Beach 2 p.m. / Meet at B. 52 St. and the
Boardwalk Come learn about shorebirds, including the
endangered piping plover, then build a bird for yourself!
City of New York
Parks & Recreation
Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor
Adrian Benepe, Commissioner
Nature Exploration
Learn about flowers and birds, wildlife, or stars
in the sky. Bring binoculars if you have them;
a flashlight for evening walks.
Night Programs
Explore the parks at night. Camp, hike, bird, stargaze,
and more.
Orienteering
Learn to use a map and compass. Wear sturdy
shoes; bring a snack, water, and binoculars if
you have them.
Performing Arts, Live!
See, hear and participate in poetry, dance,
acting, readings, open microphone nights in our
beautiful parks and nature centers.
Special Events
Our Special Events celebrate nature and are
great fun for all ages! For information,
call 311 and ask for the Urban Park Rangers,
or visit www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers.
QUEENS
Alley Pond Park Adventure Center (APPAC): Alley Pond Park.
Enter at Winchester Blvd., under the Grand Central Parkway.
718.217.6034
Forest Park Visitor Center (FPVC): Forest Park. Woodhaven Blvd.
& Forest Park Drive. 718.846.2731
Fort Totten Visitor Center (FTVC): Fort Totten Park. Enter park at
fort entrance, north of intersection of 212 St. & Cross Island Pkwy.
and follow signs to Old Fort Totten/Visitor Center. 718.352.1769
STATEN ISLAND
Blue Heron Nature Center (BHNC): Blue Heron Park. 222 Poillon
Avenue, between Amboy Road & Hylan Boulevard. 718.967.3542
High Rock Ranger Station (HRRS): High Rock Park. Park in the lot
at the end of Nevada Avenue, off Rockland Ave., and follow signs.
saturday, July 5 cont’d
History Club / Fort Totten Park 3 p.m. / FTVC July’s topic
will be the role of artillery during the Battle of Gettysburg,
which was fought from July 1st through July 3rd, 1863.
Staten Island
Moses Mountain Hike / High Rock Park 10 a.m. / HRRS
Explore streams, forests, and geology as we scale this
artificial mountain.
Beautiful Bees / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / BHNC Buzzzzz
around the park to experience the wide variety of winged
wonders. You’ll see honey bees, bumble bees, and even
metallic green bees. Learn how they help us every day, and
check out their homes.
Forest ecology / Conference House Park 1 p.m. / Meet at
visitors center Hylan Blvd and Satterlee St. View a variety
of birds, insects, mammals, and more, while exploring what
may be the biggest stand of huckleberry in the city.
sunday, July 6
Bronx
American Revolution Weekend: Valentine-Varian House
/ Varian Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Van Cortlandt Ave. and
Bainbridge Ave. See July 5 listing.
Patriot Games / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. / oBNC
The children of the Revolution played games too - just
different ones! Find out what they were, and how to make
your own toys.
Into the Depths / Crotona Park 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. / CNC
Learn about and net the aquatic creatures that make Indian
Lake their home.
Brooklyn
NeIGHBoRHooD WAlkING TouR SeRIeS:
Boreum Hill and Cobble Hill 10 a.m. / Meet at Pacific St.
and 4 Ave. The area around Atlantic Avenue is undergoing
a renaissance, but there are still some hidden historic gems
tucked away throughout the neighborhood. Join us as we
uncover them and explore the area.
Canoeing the Creek / Marine Park 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., &
2 p.m. / Meet at Burnett St. And Avenue u Enjoy a day of
canoeing on beautiful Gerritsen Creek. Enjoy creekside views
of wading birds and basking terrapins. Ages 8 years and
older. Arrive early: first-come, first served.
Grand Army Plaza Monument Walk / Prospect Park 11 a.m.
/ Meet under the Arch Discover the history and significance
of Grand Army Plaza, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, as
well as the fountain and surrounding statues of JFK Plaza.
explore the Ravine / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Meet at Picnic
House (Prospect Park West at 3 St.) Take a nature hike and
explore the last remaining forest in Brooklyn on this guided
tour of one of Prospect Park’s most secluded & rustic areas.
Manhattan
Woodblock Printing / Inwood Hill Park 12 p.m. / IHNC
Create your own wood block print. All materials provided,
just bring your imagination.

8 Outdoors in New New York York City
City
www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS
Outdoors
sunday, July 6 cont’d
Memorials Bike Tour / Central Park 11 a.m. / Meet at
the Dana Discovery Center. Celebrate Independence Day
weekend as we take a bike tour of the north forts of Central
Park and on to the memorials of Riverside Park. Bring your
bike and helmet.
Canoeing / Inwood Hill Park 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Meet at
boat dock next to nature center See July 4 listing.
Queens
SIGNS oF lIFe SeRIeS:
Rockaway Beach 12 p.m. / Meet at B. 52 St. and the
Boardwalk What do scat, tracks, nests, and shells all have in
common? Join the Rangers to find out!
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. Explore the nineteenth century fortress
that helped protect New York City’s harbor from possible
naval attack and learn about the history of Willet’s Point.
SIGNS oF lIFe SeRIeS:
Forest Park 2 p.m. / FPVC What do scat, tracks, nests, and
cocoons all have in common? Join the Rangers to find out!
SIGNS oF lIFe SeRIeS:
kissena Park 2 p.m. / Meet at Rose and oak Aves. What
do scat, tracks, nests, and galls all have in common? Join the
Rangers to find out!
lantern Tour / Fort Totten 7:30 p.m. / Meet at entrance to
Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
Explore the dark caverns of Fort Totten for a history tour by
lantern.
DoCuMeNTARy AFTeR-DINNeR SeRIeS:
Forest Park 7:30 p.m. / Join us for some riveting adventures
on film! Special features will include segments of the
Planet Earth series, Winged Migration, and more! Call
718.846.2731 during the week prior for more information.
Staten Island
Composting 101 / Blue Heron Park 10 a.m. / BHNC Reduce
your garbage and create wonderful soil at the same time.
View several different working compost bins, as well as an
active worm bin.
Maps ‘n’ More / Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. / Meet by
comfort station off eton Pl. Never get lost again! Learn the
basics of maps and compasses, then take your turn on a
course.
Friday, July 11
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. See
July 4 listing.
Staten Island
Family Camping / Willowbrook Park 7 p.m. / location TBA
You’ll pitch a tent, build a campfire, and go on a night hike
to meet the nocturnal residents of High Rock Park. Bring
a flashlight and sleeping bag. Limited tents provided. To
register, call 718-967-3542 after 9 a.m. on July 7.
saturday, July 12
Bronx
Creating with Nature / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC
Get the creative juices flowing as we look to nature to
inspire!
Botany: From Beach to Forest/ Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. /
oBNC The varied habitats of Orchard Beach are a perfect
place to explore the diversity of NYC’s plant life.
Geology Rocks! / Crotona Park 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. / CNC
We’ll explore the rolling hills of Crotona Park to learn how
the terrain was formed and what the Wisconsin glacier left
behind.
Wildflower Walk / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC
Summer wildflowers are in full effect, so join us for an
exploration.
Ranger Puppet Theater / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / oBNC
Folktales come alive through the Ranger puppet theater. Fun
for the whole family!
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
Tree-mendous Hike / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / Meet outside
of the Audubon Center Join the Urban Park Rangers for
a guided tree walk, as we learn to identify different types
of trees, view some of NYC’s great trees, and discover the
important role trees play in our environment.
Canoeing Coney Island Creek / kaiser Park 12 p.m. /
Meeting location TBA Explore Coney Island Creek by canoe
as we go in search of wading shore birds, the remains of
NYC’s shipping history, and float by the wreck of a real
submarine. Paddling experience required. To register, please
call 718.421.2021 after 9 a.m. on July 7.
The Redcoats are Coming (and Hessians too)! / Fort Greene
Park 1 p.m. / FGVC See July 12 listing.
orienteering 101 / Prospect Park 2 p.m. / Meet behind
Picnic House (Prospect Park West at 3 St.) Learn the basics
of navigating using a map and compass as we explore
Prospect Park.
Manhattan
Where the Wild Things Are / Central Park 1 p.m. / DDC
Take the trail less traveled and explore the deep North
Woods of Central Park. Designated a Forever Wild site, this
55-acre gem holds secrets unseen by most park visitors.
Rock formations, waterfalls, and wildflowers are just a few
of the spectacular surprises that await.
Rangers in the Night / Inwood Hill Park 8:30 p.m. / IHNC
Join the Rangers as we explore the park after dark. Walk
ends at Dyckman Street.
saturday, July 12 cont’d
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.
CReATING WITH NATuRe SeRIeS:
kissena Park 11 a.m. / Meet behind kissena Playschool, off
164 St. Come learn how to get good nature pictures without
bringing a camera! We’ll do leaf rubbings and nature prints.
CReATING WITH NATuRe SeRIeS:
Forest Park 2 p.m. / FPVC Come learn how to get good
nature pictures without bringing a camera! We’ll do leaf
rubbings and nature prints.
Canoeing / Flushing Meadows Corona Park 10 a.m. –
12 p.m. / Meeting location TBA Space is limited. Preregistration
required. Call 718.846.2731 on Wednesday,
July 9th to register.
CReATING WITH NATuRe SeRIeS:
Rockaway Beach 2 p.m. / Meet at B. 52 St. and the
Boardwalk Bring the family for some serious seashell crafts!
Staten Island
Forever Wild! William T. Davis Wildlife Refuge / WTDWR
10 a.m. / Meet in parking lot at Richmond and Travis Aves.
Pay tribute to one of Staten Island’s most famous naturalists
by bringing your binoculars to get a view of blue herons,
egrets, kingfishers, and much more.
Fresh kills Tour / Fresh kills landfill 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.
/ Meeting location TBA Come witness the dramatic
transformation, as well as the turkey vultures, red-tailed
hawks, and ring-necked pheasants. You won’t believe your
eyes! Visit www.nyc.gov/parks to register.
Insect Insanity / Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. / Meet by
comfort station off eton Pl. Sneak a peek at these six-legged
wonders that are vital to our everyday survival. Discover
what they do for us and how we can help them!
sunday, July 13
Bronx
Intermediate Canoeing / Pelham Bay Park 10 a.m. /
orchard Beach Canoe and kayak launch Ready for more
of a challenge? Test your skills on the water of the Pelham
lagoon! To register, call 718.548.0912 on July 7 and leave
a message.
Tree-mendous Hike / Crotona Park 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. / CNC
London plane, sweetgum, tulip, and willow are just some of
the leafy giants found in this park. Can you point them out?
Documentary Day: Planet earth / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m.
/ VCNC No commercials! Just an airing of two episodes of
the Planet Earth series uncut and straight through.
Brooklyn
What lurks Below? / Marine Park 10 a.m. / Meet at
Burnett St. and Avenue u Discover what animals call
Gerritsen Creek home. Pull on some hip-waders (supplied)
and use seining nets to find out who’s living below the
surface of the water.
Insect Insanity / Fort Greene Park 10 a.m. / FGVC Bug out
with the Rangers and learn all about the creepy crawlers
living in Fort Greene Park and make your own buggy craft.
Children 12 and under.
Nature Hide and Seek / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / Meet
outside of the Audubon Center Discover the secrets of
camouflage on this Ranger-led discovery hike.
Nuts about Squirrels / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Learn
everything you ever wanted to know about everyone’s
favorite furry-tailed park inhabitants.
Pirate’s Treasure / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC
Someone’s hidden a secret treasure in the park! Learn how
to use a map and compass to uncover it. Finders keepers...
Children 6 to 12.
Summer Night Broadway Musical / Marine Park 6 p.m. /
SMNC Gilbert Weiss is back to sing popular Broadway show
tunes. Join us on the lawn in the backyard. Bring a lawn
chair or blank and relax.
Manhattan
Canoeing at the Meer / Central Park 11 a.m. / South side
of Harlem Meer near lasker Pool. Join the Rangers for a
day of canoeing in the middle of Manhattan. First-come,
first-served. All equipment and instruction provided. Ages 8
and up.
Highbridge Water Tower / Highbridge Park 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
/ Meet at Tower, inside the park at 173 St. and Amsterdam
Ave. Why is this tower here? Who built it, and is still used?
These, and other burning questions, will be answered today.
Queens
Creatures of the Tidal Zone / Fort Totten 11 a.m. / Meet at
entrance to Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross
Island Pkwy. Come take a walk at low tide on the rocky
shore around Fort Totten, and discover the special creatures
equipped to thrive between sea and land.
Nature Photography / Cunningham Park 12 p.m. / Meet at
parking lot on union Turnpike and 197 St.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
It’s History! / Rockaway Beach 1 p.m. / Meet at B. 52 St.
and the Boardwalk Come for a historical hike along the
Rockaway coast. Learn about the endangered piping plover
and why your hometown is important to them!
Fungus Among us / Forest Park 2 p.m. / FPVC Your local
Ranger isn’t the only “fun guy” in town. Join us for an
exploration of some of the best fungi Queens has to offer.
orienteering 101 / kissena Park 2 p.m. / Meet at Rose and
oak Aves. Can’t navigate your way out of a parking lot?
Come learn the basics of orienteering with the Urban Park
Rangers!
DoCuMeNTARy AFTeR-DINNeR SeRIeS:
Forest Park 7:30 p.m. / FPVC See July 6 listing.
sunday, July 13 cont’d
Staten Island
Canoeing Basics / Willowbrook Park 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. /
Meet by comfort station off eton Pl. Release your stress
with a peaceful ride on the water. Instruction and life jackets
provided. First-come, first served.
Radical Rocks / Conference House Park 1 p.m. / Meet at
visitors center (Hylan Blvd. and Satterlee St.) Explore the
wide variety of rocks on the shores of Conference House
Park.
Friday, July 18
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.
saturday, July 19
Bronx
entrancing ethnobotany / Van Cortlandt Park 10 a.m. &
2 p.m. / VCNC From comestibles to herbology to the
deadliest of poisons, what people can do with plants is
amazing.
Seashore Safari / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. /
oBNC Not all safaris happen in exotic places. We’ll go
looking along the shore for some coastal critters.
Backyard Birding / Crotona Park 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. / CNC
Come join the Urban Park Rangers for an introduction to
common New York City birds. Bring binoculars. All ages
welcome.
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
explore the Park: owl’s Head Park / owl’s Head Park
1 p.m. / Meet at the park house at Colonial Rd. Built on
the site of the Bliss Estate, Owl’s Head Park contains legacy
trees, rolling hills, and sweeping vistas of New York Harbor.
Discover it all on this Ranger-led tour of the park.
History on the Hill / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC
See July 5 listing.
Manhattan
little Red light House / Fort Washington Park 1 p.m. -
4 p.m. / Meet at the little Red light House Join the
Rangers as we explore the inspiration for the children’s book,
The Little Red Light House and the Great Gray Bridge.
Moon Struck / Central Park 8 p.m. / Meet at Sheep
Meadow, across from Tavern on the Green (enter park at W.
67 St.) It’s a full moon, so come on out and join the Rangers
for some moon-gazing and fun facts about everyone’s
favorite satellite.
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. See
July 4 listing.
HAPPy TRAIlS! SeRIeS:
Rockaway Beach 12 p.m. / Meet at B. 52 St. and the
Boardwalk Come take a hike along the beautiful Rockaway
coast, the summer home of the endangered piping plover!
Basic Canoeing / kissena Park 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. / Meet at
kissena lake, near Rose and oak Aves. entrance First come,
first served. Bring water and sunscreen.
Staten Island
Canoe Adventure / lemon Creek Park 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. /
location TBA Enjoy this wonderful route through the tidal
waters of Lemon Creek. You’ll see egrets, great blue herons,
kingfishers, and much more. To register, call 718.967.3542
on July 14 for reservations. Space is limited.
Rockin’ Ravine / High Rock Park 1 p.m. / HRRS Get up
close and personal with Richmond Creek. Explore the
geology of the creek and meet its inhabitants. Discover the
role it plays in the surrounding ecosystem, and the path it
takes to the Arthur Kill.
Native American Pathways / Conference House Park
1 p.m. / Meet at visitors center (Hylan Blvd and Satterlee
St.) Explore the forest and the beach in search of the
different plants and animals the Native Americans used for
food and shelter.
sunday, July 20
Bronx
Creating with Nature / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. /
oBNC Get the creative juices flowing as we look to nature
to inspire!
Nature Bingo for kids / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. &
2 p.m. / VCNC Bring your little ones for a fun learning
experience and some games. Prizes!
Message in a Bottle / Crotona Park 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. /
CNC Plastic bottles are a hazard to our environment if not
properly discarded after use. We’ll explore ways to reuse
plastic bottles for nature’s benefit. Please bring your own
bottles. Ages 6 and up.
Brooklyn
History Club: City Hall Park and the Brooklyn Bridge / City
Hall Park 11 a.m. / Meet at the Fountain (inside the park at
Broadway and Park Row) Come out and help us celebrate
the 125th birthday of this historic bridge on this Ranger-led
walking tour, starting in Manhattan at recently restored City
Hall Park and continuing over the Brooklyn Bridge (tour ends
in Brooklyn).
Bottle Biology / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Help recycle
as we create soda bottle terrariums. Bring an empty clean
2-liter soda bottle and all other materials will be provided.
Nature’s Recyclers / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC People
aren’t the only ones who recycle. Discover how nature
breaks down different materials.

URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers SUMMER 2008 9
sunday, July 20 cont’d
Manhattan
Photography/ Inwood Hill Park/ 10 a.m. / IHNC Join the
Urban Park Rangers on a wildlife hike from Inwood Hill
through Fort Tryon Park. What better way for you to save a
memory than taking it home on film.
BRIDGeS oF MANHATTAN SeRIeS:
History Club: City Hall Park and the Brooklyn Bridge / City
Hall Park 11 a.m. / Meet at the Fountain (inside the park at
Broadway and Park Row) See today’s Brooklyn listing.
Queens
Family Fun / Fort Totten Park 10 a.m. / FTVC Bring the
family out for some fun! Join the rangers for craft projects,
games, and storytelling.
GeMS oF QueeNS SeRIeS:
Powell’s Cove Park 11 a.m. / Meet at 11 Ave and 138 Pl.
More than half of Powell’s Cove Park is literally submerged
under the waters of Flushing Bay, but you won’t have to
get wet to learn about the various plants and animals that
inhabit this ecosystem. From cordgrass to crabs, this cove’s
got it all.
living Rocks / Rockaway Beach 12 p.m. / Meet at B. 52
St. and the Boardwalk Think rocks aren’t important? Think
again. Come find out who makes them their home!
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
living logs / kissena Park 1 p.m. / Meet at Rose and
oak Aves. Where do trees go when they die? Do they stay
there? Come learn about nature’s recyclers!
living logs / Forest Park 2 p.m. / FPVC Where do trees
go when they die? Do they stay there? Come learn about
nature’s recyclers!
DoCuMeNTARy AFTeR-DINNeR SeRIeS:
Forest Park 7:30 p.m. / FPVC See July 6 listing.
Staten Island
Park Pickup / Blue Heron Park 10 a.m. / BHNC Give
Mother Nature a hand by removing what doesn’t belong.
Gloves and bags provided. Wear boots.
living log / Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. / Meet by comfort
station off eton Pl. We’ll explore several logs in the park in
search of snakes, worms, insects, and more..
Friday, July 25
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. See
July 4 listing.
saturday, July 26
Bronx
John Muir Trail / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Meet at
Broadway and Mosholu Ave. Stretch your legs and get some
air as we traverse the park’s only east-west trail. Hike ends
on the east side of the park.
What’s the “Bug” Idea? / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. and
1 p.m. / oBNC Are all bugs insects? Are all insects bugs?
Learn the answer and much more as we go looking into a
bug’s life!
Ranger Puppet Theater / Crotona Park 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. /
CNC See July 12 listing.
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
Canoeing the Creek / Marine Park 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., &
2 p.m. / Meet at Burnett St. And Avenue u See July 6
listing.
Dragons and Damsels / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Meet
outside of the Audubon Center Dragonflies and damselflies,
that is. Join us as we go in search of these bejeweled insect
beauties.
Holding Down the Fort / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC
Join the Rangers for a look at the fortifications for each of
the three conflicts in which it was involved.
Manhattan
Fairy Tale Statues / Central Park 1 p.m. / Meet at Delacorte
Musical Clock (at 65 St. near Zoo) Imaginative minds of
all ages will be enchanted by this tour of the Park’s most
fanciful statues including Balto, Mother Goose, Alice in
Wonderland, and Hans Christian Anderson. Includes a fun
stop for kids at the charming Billy Johnson Playground and
its nearby Rustic Shelter.
Camp out! / Inwood Hill Park 6 p.m. / IHNC Join the
rangers as we teach about the fundamentals of camping.
You will learn basic survival skills and how to pitch a tent.
What better way to spend the evening then camping out
under the stars? To register, please call 212.304.2365 on
July 14.
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.
Nature knowledge / Highland Park 11 a.m. / Meet at
Jamaica Ave. and elton St. Explore this gem of a park that
sits on the border of Queens and Brooklyn. It doesn’t matter
which borough you’re from—come on down.
Staten Island
PARk To PARk:
High Rock to Reed’s Basket Willow Swamp / High Rock
Park 10 a.m. / High Rock Ranger Station Hike the Yellow
Trail to this beautiful swamp to see the purple willows once
used to make baskets, along with dusky and northern red
salamanders.
Fresh kills Tour / Fresh kills landfill 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. /
Meeting TBA See July 12 listing.
saturday, July 26 cont’d
Great Swamp / Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. / Meet by comfort
station off eton Pl. Willowbrook was once known as the
“Great Swamp.” Join the Rangers for this historical and
natural look at Willowbrook Park. Wear hiking boots and
bring water and a snack.
Bat Bonanza / Blue Heron Park 8 p.m. / BHNC See the bats
in the wild east! Pay tribute to one of the more beneficial
animals in our area. If you don’t like mosquitoes, you’ll love
these animals.
sunday, July 27
Bronx
early Birding / Pelham Bay Park 9 a.m. / oBNC
Canoeing / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC Learn the
basics, or practice what you know! First come, first served.
Bring water and sun screen. Ages 8 and up
orienteering Scavenger Hunt / Crotona Park 11 a.m.
and 2 p.m. / Crotona Nature Center Learn the basics of
orienteering while learning about the park’s hidden gems.
Park-itecture / Pelham Bay Park 2 p.m. / oBNC From
Orchard Beach’s early days as a WPA project to the largescale
construction of today, parks are always changing. Join
us for a guided tour of some of the building techniques
employed.
Brooklyn
Duck, Duck,…Goose! / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / Meet
at Vanderbilt Playground (enter at Vanderbilt Ave. and
Prospect Park Southwest) Bring your young ones to Prospect
Park for their first birding outing on this bird tour designed
for young children.
Who, Who, Who…Did I eat? / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC
What do owls eat? How do they find their food? Learn
the answers to these questions and more as we dissect owl
pellets.
Criminals, Cops, and Capers / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. /
FGVC Learn about some of the most infamous crimes in
NYC history and the science investigators used to solve the
mysteries.
The Giving Tree / Prospect Park 2 p.m. / Meet at the Picnic
House (enter at Prospect Park West at 3 St.) Join us for a
reading of this beloved children’s book, followed by a tree
walk through the Ravine.
Creatures of the Night Hike / Marine Park 7:30 p.m.
/ SMNC Enjoy a night hike as we go in search of bats,
raccoons, opossums, and night herons.
Manhattan
Go Fish! / Inwood Hill Park 2 p.m. / IHNC Join the Rangers
as we teach you the basics of fishing. Rods and bait
provided.
Canoeing at the Meer / Central Park 11 a.m. / South side
of Harlem Meer. See July 13 listing.
Queens
Nature Scavenger Hunt / Fort Totten Park 10 a.m. / Meet
at entrance to the Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. Birds, insects, and trees...Fort Totten
is the place to be! Join us on a hunt to uncover Mother
Nature’s hidden treasures.
13th Annual Rockaway Sandcastle Contest / Rockaway
Beach 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. / Meet at B. 117 St. and Boardwalk
Test your architectural skills by building a sand structure at
the beach. It doesn’t have to be a castle, but it does have to
be creative. Prizes. Bring your own tools.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
living Ponds / Forest Park 1 p.m. / FPVC Join the Rangers
for a pond ecology lesson and look for fresh water insects
and other critters!
Staten Island
History Club: Names of Staten Island / Blue Heron Park
10 a.m. / BHNC What’s in a name? Learn the origins of
the many different names of streets, parks, and beaches of
Staten Island, from Abbey Road to Zwicky Street.
Dynamic Decomposers / Conference House Park 1 p.m. /
Meet at visitors center (Hylan Blvd. and Satterlee St.) We’d
be up to our eyeballs in dead things if it weren’t for dynamic
decomposers—join us as we explore their world.
Thursday, July 31
Brooklyn
lawn Chair Theater / Marine Park 7:30 p.m. / SMNC
Featured movie will be “The Birds.” Call 718.421.2021 for
more information.
August
Friday, August 1
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. See
July 4 listing.
AMAZIN’ DAy AT SHeA:
A Commemorative Tour / Flushing Meadows Corona Park
11 a.m. / Meet at Shea Stadium Diamond Club (between
Gates C & D) Come sports fans! Join the Urban Park
Rangers for an on-field historical tour of Shea Stadium in its
last year as home to the New York Mets! Pre-registration
is required; space is limited. Please call 718.846.2731
on Wednesday, July 16th between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to
reserve. Maximum of 4 people per party.
saturday, August 2
Bronx
Birding Club / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Once a
month, every month, come bird with us! Bring your own
binoculars.
Best of Both Worlds / Crotona Park 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. /
CNC Come learn about Crotona Park’s native and invasive
species and how they have become an important part of the
park’s ecology.
orienteering Scavenger Hunt / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. /
VCNC See July 27 listing.
Intermediate Canoeing / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Meet at
orchard Beach Canoe and kayak launch See July 13 listing.
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
Canoe the lullwater / Prospect Park 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. &
2 p.m. / Meet at the ramp near the Audubon Center Enjoy
a day of canoeing on beautiful Lullwater to the Lake and
back. Enjoy views of wading birds and basking turtles. Ages
8 years and older. Arrive early: first-come, first served.
Colonial living / Fort Greene Park 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. / FGVC
Discover what life was like in America in the years just
before the Revolution. Try your hand at colonial era games,
butter churning, and watch a colonial open pit cooking
demonstration.
Park Clean up / Marine Park 1 p.m. / Meet in front of
SMNC Come help spruce up the Salt Marsh Nature Trail.
Family Fishing / Prospect Park 3 p.m. / Meet outside the
Audubon Center Enjoy a day of fishing with the family in
beautiful Prospect Park. Poles and bait provided.
Manhattan
early Birding/ Inwood Hill Park 8 a.m. / IHNC
loWeR MANHATTAN PARkS SeRIeS:
Battery Park and Governors Island / Bowling Green 9 a.m. /
Meet at Bowling Green Park (Broadway and Beaver St.) The
Urban Park Rangers and National Park Service invite you
to explore these fantastic parks, spending the day learning
about the intricate social, political, and economic history of
New York City.
Queens
early Birding / Fort Totten 9:30 a.m. / Meet at entrance to
the Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island
Pkwy History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
Plover Day / Rockaway Beach 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. / Meet at
B. 59 St. and Boardwalk Learn about these endangered
birds that live in your backyard. Crafts, face painting, and
refreshments are part of the fun.
Staten Island
living log / Bloomingdale Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Ramona
and lenevar Aves. See July 20 listing.
Insect Insanity / Conference House Park 1 p.m. / Meet at
visitors center (Hylan Blvd. and Satterlee St.) See July 12
listing.
sunday, August 3
Bronx
Fishing for kids / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. /
VCNC Family fun at the lake! We’ll teach all the basics, and
provide poles and bait.
Arts and Crafts for kids /Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
/ oNBC
The Reel Deal / Crotona Park 2 p.m. / CNC
See July 5 listing.
Brooklyn
Park Slope Neighborhood Walk Part I / Park Slope 10 a.m.
/ Meet at the corner of Bergen St. and Flatbush Ave. Part
I of our most popular neighborhood walking tour. We’ll
see the “Princess of Prospect Place,” Queen Anne-style
mansions, and gorgeous brownstones. Bring water and wear
comfortable walking shoes. Tour will last approximately
2 hours.
Birding / owl’s Head Park 12 p.m. / Meet at the Parkhouse
at Colonial Rd.
Amazing Arches / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Meet outside
the Audubon Center Explore the beauty of Prospect Park’s
unique arches, while learning the history of these features
that played a large role in Olmsted and Vaux’s design.
Manhattan
North by Southwest / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC A
journey from the forests of Inwood Hill Park, to the creative
design of Fort Tryon Park, ending on the banks of the
Hudson at Fort Washington Park. Along the way, we’ll cover
the history and natural aspects of these greenspaces.
Canoeing / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. / Meet at
boat dock next to nature center Ages 8 and up. First-come,
first-served.
loWeR MANHATTAN PARkS SeRIeS:
lower east Side Community Garden and Neighborhood
Tour / Tompkins Square Park 1 p.m. / Meet at St. Mark’s Pl.
and Ave. A. Bring your walking shoes and explore some of
these secret oases, as we make our way to the East River.
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.

10 Outdoors in New New York York City
City
www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS
Outdoors
sunday, August 3 cont’d
Canoeing / Bayswater Park 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. / Meet at
B. 35 St and Beach Channel Dr. Canoe along Norton Basin
with the Urban Park Rangers. Children ages 8 and older can
participate with a parent. Canoes, lifejackets, and instruction
provided. Pre-registration is required. Call 718.318.4000.
Space is limited. Reservation date?
Staten Island
Ponderous Ponds / Willowbrook Park 11 a.m. / Meet by
comfort station off eton Pl. See July 5 listing.
Fabulous Frogs / Clove lakes Park 1 p.m. / Meet by
comfort station (1150 Clove Rd.) Jump into the park and
explore the wonderful world of the hoppers! Discover their
role in the food chain.
Wednesday, August 6
Queens
Saltwater Fishing / Bayside Marina 11 a.m. / Meet at
Marina (alongside Cross Island Pkwy. at 28 Ave.) Learn
about the different species of fish found in the waters
around New York City, as we see what we can catch. All
ages welcome; limited poles and bait provided.
Friday, August 8
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. See
July 4 listing.
saturday, August 9
Bronx
Geology of orchard Beach / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. &
1 p.m. / oBNC Explore this Marine Zoology and Geology
Sanctuary with the Rangers.
Wildflower Walk / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. /
VCNC See July 12 listing.
open Mic / Crotona Park 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. / CNC
Musicians, actors, poets, and storytellers are welcome to
perform. Who knows? Maybe even your favorite Ranger has
a hidden talent…
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
Butterfly Bonanza / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Join us
as we go in search of these beautiful insects and learn
how they get around, eat, and why they have such pretty
patterns.
Birding / Calvert Vaux Park 1 p.m. / Meet at parking lot
entrance on Shore Pkwy. bet. Bay 44 and Bay 49 Sts. You’ll
be surprised at the bird diversity at this often-overlooked
Brooklyn birding hot spot.
History on the Hill / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC
See July 5 listing.
Vale of Cashmere Hike / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Meet at
Grand Army Plaza entrance to park Explore this beautiful,
secluded section of historic Prospect Park.
Manhattan
‘Round the Reservoir / Central Park 1 p.m. / e. 90 St. and
east Drive A leisurely 1.6 mile stroll along the jogging and
bridle path that surrounds this ecologically significant body
of water. Learn about the history and controversial future
of a piece of the park that is heavily used by residents and
visitors of the human and wildlife variety.
Battle of the Heights / Inwood Hill Park 6 p.m. / IHNC
Learn the history of a not-so-well-known Revolutionary
battle. We’ll explore the role the Native Americans played,
and how they helped General Washington hold off the
British.
Queens
Creatures of the Tidal Zone / Fort Totten 11 a.m. / Meet at
entrance to Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross
Island Pkwy. See July 13 listing.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
Family Fun Day / Highland Park 6 p.m. / Meet at Jamaica
Ave. and elton St. Bring your family and enjoy all the funfilled
activities, followed by an outdoor movie screening.
Staten Island
Fresh kills Tour / Fresh kills landfill 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. /
Meeting location TBA See July 12 listing.
Damsels and Dragons / Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. / Meet by
comfort station off eton Pl. See July 26 listing.
Family Camping / High Rock Park 7 p.m. / High Rock
Ranger Station You’ll pitch a tent, build a campfire, and
go on a night hike to meet the nocturnal residents of High
Rock Park. Bring a flashlight and sleeping bag. Limited tents
provided. To register, call 718.967.3542 after 9 a.m. on
August 4.
sunday, August 10
Bronx
Beginner Canoeing / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC
Learn the basics, or practice what you know! First-come,
first-served. Bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Ages 8+.
Island Hopping I / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / oBNC The
waters surrounding Pelham Bay Park are dotted with tiny
islands, each with a unique story. Bring your binoculars for a
land lubbers’ exploration.
Are you Smarter than a Park Ranger? / Crotona Park
11 a.m. & 2 p.m. / CNC Join the Urban Park Rangers as
we test your knowledge of nature and parks. Based on the
popular television game show.
Brooklyn
living log / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Picnic House
(Prospect Park West at 3 St.) Find out how much life there
is in that “dead” log on the side of the trail on this discovery
hike with the Rangers.
sunday, August 10 cont’d
Tree-mendous Walk / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC
There are 40 different types of trees in Fort Greene Park
from all over the world. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the
park and find out all about them.
Canoeing Coney Island Creek / kaiser Park 12 p.m. /
Meeting location TBA See July 12 listing. To register, call
718.421.2021 after 9 a.m. on August 4.
Brooklyn Trivia / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Think you
know a thing or two about Kings County? Show off “dem”
smarts and win prizes.
Manhattan
Harlem Parks and Neighborhood Tour / Central Park
11 a.m. / Meet at Duke ellington Circle, 110 St. and 5
Ave.) Harlem has a rich history of art, music, food, and
culture. Come learn about this ever-changing community,
as we walk from northern Central Park, through picturesque
Morningside Park, all the way to brownstone-lined Marcus
Garvey Park.
Highbridge Water Tower / Highbridge Park 1 p.m. -
4 p.m. / Meet at Tower, inside the park at W. 173 St. and
Amsterdam Ave. See July 13 listing.
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. See
July 4 listing.
CReePy CRAWleRS SeRIeS:
Something’s Fishy! / kissena Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Rose
and oak Aves. Join the Rangers for a pond ecology lesson
and look for fresh water fish and more!
CReePy CRAWleRS SeRIeS:
Something’s Fishy! / Rockaway Beach 12 p.m. / Meet at
B. 52 St. and the Boardwalk Come seining with the Rangers
and learn about the creepy crawlers of the Atlantic Ocean.
Tree-mendous Hike / Alley Pond Park 1 p.m. / APPAC
See July 12 listing.
CReePy CRAWleRS SeRIeS:
Bug eyes! / Forest Park 2 p.m. / FPVC Learn how insects
see, then join the Rangers on a hike to look for them!
DoCuMeNTARy AFTeR-DINNeR SeRIeS:
Forest Park 7:30 p.m. / FPVC See July 6 listing
Staten Island
Park Pickup / Blue Heron Park 10 a.m. / BHNC Give
Mother Nature a hand by removing what doesn’t belong.
Gloves and bags provided. Wear boots.
Scavenger Hunt / Conference House Park 1 p.m. / Meet
at visitors center (Hylan Blvd. and Satterlee St.) Try your
hand at our hunt, one of the toughest on the south shore, in
search of clues that will lead you to a natural conclusion.
Forensic Fun / Blue Heron Park / 3 p.m. / BHNC Become a
detective for the day, as we analyze fingerprints, fibers, and
hair to solve the mystery.
Wednesday, August 13
Queens
Saltwater Fishing / Bayside Marina 11 a.m. / Meet at
Marina (alongside Cross Island Pkwy. at 28 Ave.)
See August 6 listing.
Staten Island
Astronomy: Perseid Meteor Shower / Wolfe’s Pond Park
8 p.m. / Meet in the parking lot at the end of Cornelia Ave.
off Hylan Blvd. Join the Urban Park Rangers for this annual
spectacular, weather permitting. Bring binoculars if you wish.
Friday, August 15
Bronx
Family Camping / Pelham Bay Park 6 p.m. / oBNC
To register, call 718.548.0912 on August 4 and leave a
message.
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.
saturday, August 16
Bronx
Cass Gallagher Trail / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Meet at
Broadway and Mosholu Ave. Explore the lush greenery of
the secluded northwest forest on this hike.
Hiders and Seekers / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / oBNC
An exploration of camouflage and other adaptations.
Nature’s Remedies / Crotona Park 1 p.m. / CNC Explore the
park with the Rangers, as we focus on medicinal plants.
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
urban Park Rangers eco-Challenge / Marine Park 9 a.m.
/ SMNC Register your 2 or 3 person team to compete in a
cross-country run, canoe paddle around White Island and
up Gerritsen Creek, and an orienteering course. Prizes. To
register, call 718.421.2021 on August 4 after 9 a.m.
Manhattan
Hawk Walk / Inwood Hill Park 11 a.m. / IHNC Join the
Rangers as we explore the park in search of our resident redtailed
hawks and their babies!
Canoeing at the Meer / Central Park 11 a.m. / South side
of Harlem Meer next to lasker Pool See July 13 listing.
saturday, August 16 cont’d
Queens
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
History Club/ Fort Totten Park 3 p.m. / FTVC August’s topic
will be the design and construction of the Endicott Batteries
located behind the Water Battery, and how the idea of
individual gun emplacements returned to the forefront of
coastal defense.
Family Fun Day / Highland Park 6 p.m. / Meet at Jamaica
Ave. and elton St. Bring your family and enjoy all the funfilled
activities, followed by an outdoor movie screening.
Staten Island
Park to Park: High Rock to the overlook / High Rock Park
1 p.m. / High Rock Ranger Station This hike features scenic
vistas of Raritan Bay and New Jersey’s Atlantic Highlands.
Nuts about Squirrels / Conference House Park 1 p.m. /
Meet at visitors center (Hylan Blvd. and Satterlee St.)
Do squirrels find all the nuts they bury? How do they climb
down trees headfirst? Learn these answers and more in a
trek through the park with the Urban Park Rangers.
sunday, August 17
Bronx
living log / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC
Ever wonder why we leave fallen logs on the forest floor?
We’ll turn over a few and find out!
Seining / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / oBNC The summer
waters are filled with marine life. Join us for an exploration
of the deep with our seining net.
Picture This! Past, Present, and Future / Crotona Park
1 p.m. / CNC Join the Rangers as we explore Crotona Park’s
history through photographs. Bring some of your photos
of Crotona Park past, shoot some photos of Crotona Park
present, and get a glimpse of the future.
Brooklyn
“Barefoot” in the Park / Marine Park 9 a.m. – 4:30 / SMNC
The NY Transit Amateur Radio Club will be celebrating
summer by setting up an amateur radio station at the park.
“Barefoot” is a term that refers to radio operators using
regular amplified signals to reach out and speak to radio
operators throughout the world. Come learn about the club
and participate too.
Park Slope Neighborhood Walk Part II / Park Slope 10 a.m.
/ Meet under the Arch at Grand Army Plaza
Part II of our most popular neighborhood walking tour.
We’ll start with the secrets hidden within the Soldiers and
Sailors Monument, and finish with a look at the grand
mansions that line Prospect Park West. Bring water and wear
comfortable walking shoes. Tour will last approximately
2 hours.
Manhattan
Birding on the Hudson / Riverside Park 11 a.m. / Meet at
the south end of the 101 St. soccer fields We’ll make our
way to the Riverside Bird Sanctuary and see what birds call
the Hudson estuary their home.
environmental Poetry Night/ Inwood Hill Park 6 p.m. /
IHNC Join us for an evening of open-mic poetry, as we
express our thoughts and feelings on the environment.
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.
Animal Tracking / Cunningham Park 11 a.m. / Meet at
parking lot on union Tpke. and 197 St. Animals leave
behind different signs of their whereabouts. With the
Rangers, you’ll learn to keep “track” of them all.
Staten Island
Fabulous Frogs / Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. / Meet by
comfort station off eton Pl. See August 3 listing.
Wednesday, August 20
Queens
Saltwater Fishing / Bayside Marina 11 a.m. / Meet at
Marina (alongside Cross Island Pkwy. at 28 Ave.)
See August 6 listing.
Friday, August 22
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.
saturday, August 23
Bronx
Bike the Greenway / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / PBRS
Bring your bike and enjoy a ride across the Bronx from
Pelham Bay to Van Cortlandt! Ride ends at the Van
Cortlandt Nature Center.
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
Nature-Inspired Art Show / Marine Park 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
/ SMNC Take a stroll through the nature center and view
nature-inspired artwork created by local artists. Sponsored
by the Salt Marsh Alliance.
Holding Down the Fort / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC
See July 26 listing.
Manhattan
Wilderness Survival / Inwood Hill Park 12 p.m. / IHNC
Join us for our classic survival workshop. Compass skills, firestarting,
and shelter-building are among our topics.

URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers SUMMER 2008 11
saturday, August 23 cont’d
BRIDGeS oF MANHATTAN SeRIeS:
Randall’s Island to Astoria / Triborough Bridge 12 p.m. /
Meet at e. 103 St and FDR Drive Join the Rangers as we
cross the East River via footbridge onto Randall’s Island and
explore Randall’s and Ward’s Islands. Then, it’s on to the
Triborough Bridge and Astoria Park in Queens. Tour ends in
Queens.
Queens
Community Family Day / Roy Wilkins Park 1 p.m. / Meet
inside the park, near the Merrick and Foch Boulevards
entrance This day of festivities, hosted by the Friends of
Roy Wilkins Park, is fun for the whole family. It will include
various musical performances, a health fair, face painting,
nature walks by the Urban Park Rangers and much, much
more.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
Astronomy Club / Fort Totten 8 p.m. / Meet at entrance
to Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island
Pkwy. Observe heavenly bodies through our high-powered
Dobsonian telescope and learn how to use the stars to find
your way if lost in the wilderness.
Staten Island
Fresh kills Tour / Fresh kills landfill 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. /
Meeting location TBA See July 12 listing.
Birding / Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. / Meet by comfort
station off eton Pl. Join us for a late summer exploration of
the park’s birdlife.
sunday, August 24
Bronx
Twin Island exploration / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / oBNC
From the rocky shore to the forest, this secluded island has it
all. Join us for a walk through one of the last vestiges of old
Pelham Bay.
Brooklyn
Nature-Inspired Art Show / Marine Park 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. /
SMNC See August 23 listing.
Creating with Nature / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC
Bring the kids to the park for an afternoon of creating
nature-themed crafts. Materials provided, children 12 and
under.
Manhattan
CeNTRAl PARk uNloCkeD! SeRIeS:
Hallett Nature Sanctuary / Central Park 11 a.m. / Meet on
Gapstow Bridge at the Pond (at 62 St., west of east Drive).
Millions of people visit the park every year, but very few
ever see this part. Join us for rocky promontories, pond
views, and great wildlife sightings.
Nature Crafts / Inwood Hill Park 12 p.m. / IHNC Join the
Rangers as we use natural materials to make crafts.
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.
GeMS oF QueeNS SeRIeS:
udalls Park Preserve 12 p.m. / Meet at little Neck Pkwy &
34th Ave Designated a “Forever Wild Site,” Udalls is both a
freshwater wetland, with Aurora Pond in the middle of the
preserve, and a salt marsh, with brackish Gabbler’s Creek
flowing into Little Neck Bay. At Udalls, you all will wanna
explore the fauna.
Staten Island
HISToRy CluB:
Tribute to South Beach / South Beach Park 1 p.m. / Meet
in parking lot at Sand ln. and Father Capodanno Blvd.
Discover the “second Coney Island” and explore where the
first Staten Islanders settled.
Wednesday, August 27
Saltwater Fishing / Bayside Marina 11 a.m. / Meet at
Marina (alongside Cross Island Pkwy. at 28 Ave.)
See August 6 listing.
Thursday, August 28
Brooklyn
lawn Chair Theater / Marine Park 7:30 p.m. / SMNC
Featured movie will be “National Treasure I.” Call
718.421.2021 for more information
Friday, August 29
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.
saturday, August 30
Bronx
Nature Bingo for kids / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC
Bring your little ones for a fun learning experience and some
games. Prizes!
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
…And Howe / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Richard and
William Howe commanded the naval and land forces of the
Crown during the New York campaign of the Revolution.
This tour will shed light on their story.
Birding By ear / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Sometimes
it takes more than your eyes to have a successful day bird
watching. Learn how to identify some common birds by
their call and song.
saturday, August 30 cont’d
Manhattan
CeNTRAl PARk uNloCkeD! SeRIeS:
Blockhouse #1 / Central Park 1 p.m. / Dana Discovery
Center Millions of people visit the park every year, but very
few see this part. On this exploration of the historically
significant north end, you’ll have a rare opportunity to enter
the Blockhouse, built during the war of 1812.
Camp out! / Inwood Hill Park 6 p.m. / IHNC See July 26
listing. To register, please call 212.304.2365 on August 18.
Queens
knot for Nothing / Fort Totten Park 10 a.m. / FTVC Ever
been in a ‘bind,’ not knowing which knot to use or how
to tie something down, up, or together? Come learn and
practice some of the most basic & practical knots. Avoid
knotty situations in the future, and you’ll thank yourself for
knot-knowing.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
Staten Island
Canoeing Basics / Clove lakes Park 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. /
Meet on Martling Ave. at the pond Release your stress with
a peaceful ride on the water. Instruction and life jackets
provided. First-come, first-served.
sunday, August 31
Bronx
Buggin’ out / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / oBNC Join
us for a micro-safari, in search of some of our six-legged
neighbors.
Brooklyn
Women of the Revolution and Beyond / Fort Greene Park
10 a.m. / FGVC Today, we’re recognizing the contributions
of great women in American history.
orienteering / owl’s Head Park 1 p.m. / Meet at the
park house at Colonial Rd. Learn to use a compass as you
navigate your way around this lovely neighborhood park.
Manhattan
Summer Trees / Inwood Hill Park 1 p.m. / IHNC Do you
know which tree was used to flavor gum? Did you know
that we have an orange tree in the park? Join us as we show
you some unique trees and share their history.
urban Park Ranger Biathlon / Inwood Hill Park / Meeting
location TBA Join the Rangers in the surf and on the turf!
Bring your bikes and helmets to Inwood, where we will
canoe to Fort Washington Park. Your bikes will meet you
there to take on the winding paths of Fort Washington and
Riverside Parks. Bring water and save up your energy. To
register, please call 212.304.2365 beginning August 25.
Queens
Canoeing / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See July 4 listing.
Staten Island
Freshwater Fishing / Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. -3 p.m.
/ Meet by comfort station off eton Pl. Poles, bait, and
instruction provided.
September
monday, september 1
Staten Island
Canoeing Basics / Wolfe’s Pond Park 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. /
Meet in the Parking lot at the end of Cornelia off Hylan
Blvd. See August 30 listing.
saturday, september 6
Bronx
Birding Club / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Once a
month, every month, come bird with us! Bring your own
binoculars.
Papermaking / Van Cortlandt Park 2 p.m. / VCNC Come
join New York’s Greenest for this recycling activity!
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
Hike the Midwood / Prospect Park 12 p.m. / Meet behind
the Audubon Center Join us for a guided nature hike
through one of Brooklyn’s most natural areas.
Tales from the Crypt / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC
The remains of over 8,000 souls are interred in Fort Greene
Park. Find out who they are and how they got there.
Manhattan
Heather Garden and Beyond! / Fort Tryon Park 11 a.m.
/ Meet at Margaret Corbin Circle (just north of 190 St.
and Fort Washington Ave.) Join us for a stroll through the
park in search of herbs, plants, and bushes. We’ll focus on
uncommon uses of common plants.
Wildflower Walk / Central Park 1 p.m. / Belvedere Castle.
Learn to recognize native and non-native plant species
that thrive in the Ramble woodland. We’ll also take a stroll
through lovely Shakespeare Garden, which holds many herbs
and flowers mentioned in his writing.
Queens
35 Annual Park Fair / Forest Park 10 a.m. / Meet at Buddy
Monument, at the intersection of Myrtle Ave. and Park
lane South Raffles. Games. Nature walks by the Urban Park
Rangers. It’s fun for the whole family. Hill Block Association.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
saturday, september 6 cont’d
Staten Island
Birding / High Rock Park 9 a.m. / HRRS Take a look at the
winged wonders of the Greenbelt. Explore the forest and
several ponds for egrets, herons, red-winged blackbirds and
much more.
Fresh kills Tour / Fresh kills landfill 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. /
Meeting location TBA See July 12 listing.
New york State Symbols / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / BHNC
Do you know what our state bird is? How about the state
insect? Join the Urban Park Rangers to discover these and
more. See how many you can find in the park.
sunday, september 7
Bronx
Great Trees of the Bronx / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / PBRS
They’re all around us, but a few are truly special. We’ll take
you on a tour of the ancient and mighty.
Brooklyn
NeIGHBoRHooD WAlkING TouR SeRIeS:
Coney Island 10 a.m. / Meet on the Boardwalk in front of
the Parachute Jump This could be the final season for the
famous and infamous Coney Island, as we know it. Join us
for a look at the “Nickel Empire,” when 5 cents took you
to a whole new world. Bring water and wear comfortable
walking shoes. Tour will last approximately 2 hours.
Grandparents Day Nature Walk / Marine Park 1 p.m. /
SMNC Bring grandma and grandpa for a leisurely stroll on
the nature trail led by an Urban Park Ranger.
Manhattan
Basic Canoeing / Inwood Hill Park 12 p.m. / IHNC
First-come, first-served.
Starry, Starry Night / Central Park 8 p.m. / Meet at Sheep
Meadow, across from Tavern on the Green (enter park at W.
67 St.) Check out the stars of Central Park, but not of the
tabloid variety. We’ll look for stars, constellations, planets,
and more.
Queens
Fishing / kissena Park 12 p.m. / Meet behind kissena
Playschool, inside the park, near oak Ave. and 164 St.
Limited equipment provided.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
Astronomy Club / Fort Totten 8 p.m. / Meet at entrance to
Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
See August 23 listing.
Staten Island
Birding / lemon Creek Park 9 a.m. / Meet in parking lot at
Sharrott Ave. off Hylan Blvd.
Wiggly Worms / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / Blue Heron
Nature Center Discover how keeping a worm bin reduces
your garbage and provides wonderful compost for your
flowers and gardens.
saturday, september 13
Bronx
Wildflower Walk / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC
Discover late summer flowers on the last of our seasonal
flower walks.
Brooklyn
early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
The Redcoats are Coming (and Hessians too)! / Fort Greene
Park 1 p.m. / FGVC See July 12 listing.
Children’s Hour / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC An afternoon
of creative nature crafts. Materials provided. Children 12 and
under.
Manhattan
little Red light House / Fort Washington Park 1-4 p.m. /
Meet at the little Red light House See July 19 listing.
THe loWeR MANHATTAN PARkS SeRIeS:
Four Squares! / Madison Square Park 11 a.m. / Meet at
the corner of W. 26 St. and 5 Ave. Join us on a walk from
one square to the next as we wind our way from Madison
Square to Union Square to Stuyvesant Square to Tompkins
Square, and everything in between. Square comfortable
shoes and bring water.
Queens
early Birding / Fort Totten 9:30 a.m. / Meet at entrance to
the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island
Pkwy.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
Staten Island
early Birding / Clove lakes Park 9 a.m. / Meet at comfort
station (1150 Clove Rd.)
ADulTS oNly Camping / High Rock Park 6 p.m. / Meeting
location TBA Take this opportunity to get away from the
kids, pets, roommates, or whatever. This will be a quiet
opportunity to pitch a tent, build a campfire, and go on a
night hike to meet the nocturnal occupants of High Rock
Park. Bring a flashlight and sleeping bag. Limited tents
provided. To register, call 718.967.3542 on September 8
after 9 a.m.
sunday, september 14
Bronx
Advanced Canoeing on the Hutchinson River / Pelham
Bay Park 11 a.m. / PBRS Not for the inexperienced! If
you’re good with a paddle and enjoy birding, it’s the perfect
opportunity to go where few others do. To register, call
718.548.0912 on September 8 and leave a message.

12 Outdoors in New New York York City
City
www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS
Outdoors
Sunday, September 14 cont’d
Brooklyn
Mysteries of NYC History / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. /
FGVC Throughout NYC history, big plans were laid out that
would have changed everything. Find out all about the city
that never was, from the highways that never got built, to
the parks that were never developed.
History Club: History of the NYPD / Marine Park 1 p.m. /
SMNC Join the History club for a round table discussion of
the proud history of New York’s Finest.
Manhattan
BRIDGES OF MANHATTAN SERIES:
High Bridge / Highbridge Park 1 - 4 p.m. / Meet at the
Tower (inside the park at 173 St. and Amsterdam Ave
Climb the water tower and learn about the role it played in
New York City history, while taking in views of the oldest
bridge in New York City.
Queens
Park to Park and Back! / Cunningham Park & Alley Pond
Park 11 a.m. / Meet at 209 St. and Motor Parkway
What’s better than spending a day in one of our beautiful
parks? Spending a day in two of our beautiful parks, of
course. Cunningham and Alley are connected by historic
Vanderbilt Motor Parkway, which is now a bicycle and
pedestrian path. Approximately 2 miles round-trip. Bring
water and comfortable shoes.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
Nocturnal Hike / Fort Totten 8 p.m. / Meet at entrance to
Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
Join us as we explore the after-hours world of bats and
other nocturnal wildlife.
Staten Island
Journey to the South Pole / Conference House Park 11 a.m.
/ Meet at visitors center (Hylan Blvd and Satterlee St.)
Visit the “South Pole,” the designated southernmost point
of New York City and New York State. You won’t see any
penguins here, but the wildlife is just as special.
Monday September 15
Brooklyn
MONDAY NIGHT LECTURE:
Nutrition and Health: What does the Label Mean? / Marine
Park 7 p.m. / SMNC Join our guest speaker for a discussion
of the relationship between nutrition and health and how to
decipher the labels on the foods we buy.
Wednesday, September 17
Astronomy / Blue Heron Park 7 p.m. / BHNC Weather
permitting, join us for a look up at the heavens, in search of
stars, constellations, planets, and more. Bring binoculars, if
you wish.
Saturday, September 20
Bronx
Beginner Canoeing / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC
Learn the basics, or practice what you know! First-come,
first-served. Bring water, sunscreen, and a snack. Ages 8+.
Brooklyn
Early Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC
History on the Hill / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC
Join the Rangers for a guided tour of historic Fort Greene
Park and discover the role this park played in the American
Revolution.
See ‘Ya in the Funny Pages / Fort Greene Park 4 p.m. /
FGVC We’ll explore NYC’s history in comic books, both in
terms of characters, stories, and creative talents that crafted
them.
Early Evening Birding / Marine Park 5 p.m. / SMNC
The early bird gets the worm, but did you know that early
evening can be a great time to see birds too?
Saturday Night Live: Fall Harvest Hoe Down / Marine Park
7 p.m. / SMNC Hee Haw! Join Dancin’ with Bob B. and
Vivian for a night of fun and entertainment, line dancing,
two-stepping, and country bumpkin fun. Come kiss summer
goodbye and welcome in fall.
Queens
History Triple Play
Native American History / Alley Pond Park 10:30 a.m. /
APPAC Learn the history of the Matinecock, who originally
settled the land that is now Alley Pond Park. You’ll learn about
their hunting, gathering, farming, and survival techniques.
Can’t get enough Queens history? After this program, head on
over to nearby Fort Totten for more.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at entrance
to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island
Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
History Club / Fort Totten Park 3 p.m. / FTVC September’s
topics will include recruiting methods and training of troops,
and what life was probably like at ‘Camp Morgan’ during the
Civil War.
Staten Island
Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Landfill 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. /
Meeting location TBA See July 12 listing.
Saturday, September 20 cont’d
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. / BHNC Celebrate the 10th
Anniversary of Blue Heron Nature Center. Enjoy games, crafts,
nature hikes, and a variety of animals throughout the day.
Sunday, September 21
Bronx
Island Hopping II- Advanced Canoeing / Pelham Bay Park
/ Meeting location & time TBA On this first-of-its-kind
canoe trip, join the Rangers as we explore the islands around
Orchard Beach from the water, and learn their histories. Not
for the inexperienced! To register, call 718.548.0912 on
September 15 and leave a message.
Brooklyn
Neighborhood Walking Tour Series / Clinton Hill 10 a.m.
/ Meet at the corner of Lafayette Ave. and Claremont Ave.
A brand new addition to our popular neighborhood walking
tours: Clinton Hill and its historic district. Bring water and
wear comfortable shoes. Tour will last about 2 hours.
Fall Harvest Dance / Marine Park 3 p.m. / SMNC Join the
Brooklyn Dance Center Dancers for an outdoor performance
expressing the shade & colors of the harvest season.
Manhattan
“The Works” North / Central Park 11 a.m. / Belvedere
Castle Put on your walking shoes as we hike the northern
half of Central Park. We’ll zigzag from east to west,
discovering everything from streams and waterfalls to
flowers and trees.
Queens
The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful: Native and Exotic
Plants / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Meet at entrance to Fort,
north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy.
Find out how exotic plants take root away from their home,
what makes them succeed, and why their success often
comes at the expense of wildlife diversity.
GEMS OF QUEENS SERIES:
Dubos Point Park 11 a.m. / Meet at B. 65 St. and Bayfield
Ave. Named in honor of environmentalists Dr. Rene and
Jean Dubos, this 33-acre sanctuary is the largest salt marsh
on the north shore of Rockaway Peninsula east of Rockaway
Point. Considered a stop along the Atlantic Flyway, Dubos is
an excellent place to see migratory birds.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
Staten Island
Park Pickup / Blue Heron Park 10 a.m. / BBNC
Give Mother Nature a hand by removing what doesn’t
belong. Gloves and bags provided. Wear boots.
Staten Island Bigfoot / Arden Woods 1 p.m. / Meet at
Arden Ave. and Forest Green Do you have the courage to
investigate the park with the most “Bigfoot” sightings? Hike
through the woods in search of this, and other wildlife.
Thursday, September 25
Lawn Chair Theater / Marine Park 7:30 p.m. / SMNC
Featured movie will be “Field of Dreams.” Call
718.421.2021 for more information.
Saturday, September 27
Bronx
Early Birding / Van Cortlandt Park 10 a.m. / Meet at
Broadway and Mosholu Ave.
Brooklyn
Brooklyn-Manhattan Birding Big Day Out / Prospect Park
9 a.m. / Meeting location TBA Pack a lunch, bring your
binoculars, and get ready for a daylong birding marathon
in the best birding spots in Brooklyn and Manhattan.
Transportation provided. To register, call 718.421.2021.
Join the Urban Park Rangers!
Looking for hiking in your borough?
Need motivation? The Urban Park
Rangers offer adventure &
hiking hiking
HIKING HIKING HIKING
leisure hikes, nature &
historic walks and tours,
and orienteering
events.
VISIT TODAY for more information at
www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers
or call 866.692.4295
canoe canoe
CANOE CANOE CANOE
Saturday, September 27 cont’d
Leaf Printing / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Arts and crafts
for kids under 12.
Holding Down the Fort / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC
See July 26 listing.
Manhattan
Camp Out! / Inwood Hill Park 6 p.m. / IHNC See July 26
listing. To register, please call 212.304.2365 on Sept. 15.
Brooklyn-Manhattan Birding Big Day Out / Prospect Park
9 a.m. / Meeting location TBA See Brooklyn listing above.
Queens
Fall Migration Weekend / Highland Park 9 a.m. / Meet
at Jamaica Ave. and Elton St. Many birds fly south every
autumn in preparation for the upcoming winter. The
Rangers will conduct a bird census, so we’re “counting” on
you to come.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the Fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
Staten Island
Early Birding / Lemon Creek Park 9 a.m. / Meet in parking
lot at end of Seguine Ave.
PARK TO PARK:
Red Trail / Greenbelt 11 a.m. / Meet at Richmond Rd. and
St. Patrick’s Pl. Visit historic Richmond Town before the
trek over Heyerdahl Hill and through Buck’s Hollow, as we
explore ravines, forests, and meadows.
Sunday, September 28
Bronx
Hawk-Watch / Pelham Bay Park 10 a.m. / PBRS Pelham
Bay is a hot spot for viewing migrating raptors. Come check
it out with the Rangers.
Brooklyn
Spanning Time / Brooklyn Bridge 10 a.m. / Meet at
Brooklyn Borough Hall (Cadman Plaza W. and Joralemon
St.) Stroll the historic Brooklyn Bridge, enjoy the view, and
learn all about the beginnings of greater New York City.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Tour will last
approximately 2 hours & end in Manhattan’s City Hall Park.
Explore the Ravine / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Meet at the
Picnic House Visit the last standing forest in Brooklyn on
this guided tour of one of Prospect Park’s most secluded and
rustic areas.
Manhattan
Ranger Theater Presents / Inwood Hill Park 12 p.m. / IHNC
Join the Ranger puppeteers for an afternoon of fun.
Trees on the River’s Side / Riverside Park 12 p.m. / Meet
at the south end of the 101 St. soccer fields Put on your
walking shoes and enjoy a tree identification walk.
Queens
Fall Migration Weekend / Flushing Meadows Corona Park
10 a.m. / Meet at Mauro Playground (Park Dr. East and
73 Terr.) See September 27 listing.
History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet at
entrance to the fort, north of intersection of 212 St. and
Cross Island Pkwy. See July 6 listing.
Staten Island
HISTORY CLUB:
Alice Austen House / Alice Austen Park
11 a.m. / Meet at Hylan Blvd. and Edgewater St. Come
visit the residence of the famous Staten Island photographer.
Looking for birding walks
in your borough? Want to
meet other birders? The
Urban Park Rangers offer bird
walks and talks.
BIRD BIRD BIRD
bird bird
free! FREE!
Looking for canoeing in your
borough? Want to meet other
canoeists? The Urban Park
Rangers offer basic canoeing
programs and canoe
expeditions.

URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 13
The living log
By Anne-marie vaduva, urban Park ranger
New York City is crazy about trees! Through the
MillionTreesNYC initiative we are on our way to planting
one million of them by the year 2017.
The benefits of living trees to people and to the
environment are many and varied. A single mature tree
can release enough oxygen back into the atmosphere
to support two human beings. And while it’s at it,
that tree will also absorb approximately 48 pounds
per year of that pesky global warming gas, carbon
dioxide. Living trees make and clean our air, their leafy
canopies lower temperatures by shading buildings and
concrete streets, help reduce asthma rates, beautify our
neighborhoods, and just make us feel happy.
All of these benefits would not be possible if not
for the trees and plants of yesteryear that died and
decomposed to form humus, the organic component of
soil that is vital to growth.
The decomposition and recycling of a mature tree can
take up to 200 years, and during that time it becomes
an ecosystem in itself — home and cafeteria for wild
creatures that feed off the dead wood, as well as each
other.
The first creatures to make their way inside the solid
wood must eat their way through. Primary consumers
such as engraver and click beetles as well as termites
eat the wood, but others such as carpenter ants and
wood-boring mites cut tunnels through the wood to
make sheltered homes that protect them from the
elements. Wood is mostly made up of cellulose, which
most organisms on earth cannot digest, which is
why beetles have special chemicals in their digestive
systems to break it down, and termites actually carry
around protozoa in their digestive tract that breaks
down the cellulose. The termites eat the protozoa’s
byproducts.
The first wave of wood invaders bring with them
bacteria and fungi that once inside also begin to break
down and eat the wood. They transform nitrogen, a
nutrient vital to plant and animal life, from an unusable
form in the wood into a usable form released in the soil.
Man’s Best Friend
dog day afternoon
Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the noonday sun
Indian Proverb
New York is a
dog-friendly city.
Just walk around
in the residential
areas. Dogs, with
their people sit
on stoops, in
laps at sidewalk
restaurant
tables, on lines
at neighborhood
bodegas, in
purses, baby
strollers, and
even snugglies.
Is a dog your constant companion? Do you take her
with you into the city parks to jog, play tennis, go for a
hike, play Frisbee, picnic, or just hang out? As the weather
heats up, both in temperature and humidity, here are the
precautions to take to keep your dog healthy:
All of this eating and home-making over many years
changes the wood from hard and solid to soft and
spongy. Water starts to permeate inside the decaying
log, and it becomes even softer. A spongy log full of
water provides a cool, damp retreat on hot summer
days for salamanders and other creatures, and acts as
a nursery, holding tens of thousands of eggs for the
insects that call the log their home.
Plant seeds blown by the wind into the log start
sending their roots into the soft insides, leading to
the further break down of the wood. More woodboring
insects gain access and move in. Secondary
consumers such as spiders and centipedes arrive and
start feeding off of the insects that are eating the wood,
while decomposers such as pill bugs, earthworms, and
millipedes break down plant and insect remains.
• Groom your dog. Dogs only sweat through their
noses, pads of their feet, and mouths (panting). Fur
helps insulate your dog from the heat of the sun, so a
“summer cut” can do more harm than good. What is
important is that her fur be mat-, shed-, and tanglefree
to allow the heat in her body to pass out.
• Use sun block. Protect your dog’s nose and ears,
especially if the skin is pink. If you have a “hairless” dog,
protect all her exposed skin. If you choose to shave
your dog, take extra precautions to keep her from
direct sun exposure.
• Protect your dog’s feet! Pavement heats up enough
to damage your dog’s feet. Watch for cracks, dry skin
and swelling on pads, and restrict the amount of time
you walk her on hot surfaces.
• Use flea and tick preventatives. There is little worse
than finding fleas or ticks on your pet or in your home.
Ask your vet or your pet care supplier for a long-lasting
liquid or oral preventative. There is protection from
mosquitoes available now, as well.
• Keep you dog’s health care up to date. Hookworm
infestation is prevalent from July to September.
• Watch what your dog eats! Dogs love to ‘snarf’ up
food they find. This is especially a problem in summer.
A deadly mold, tremorgenic mycotoxins, can grow on
food left in heat. Fertilizers, insecticides, and some plants
(foxglove, a summer garden favorite) are also highly
toxic. If you are picnicking, skip the corn on the cob.
In its last stages of decomposition, the rotting log
transforms into a carpet of mosses and lichens, and
earthworms, fungi, and bacteria complete the cycle of
turning wood into soil. A new tree seedling may begin
its life on the site of an old log, and this natural cycle
has come full circle.
The Urban Park Rangers have 9 Living Log
programs this summer. See the calendar for
details.
Dogs love to eat the husks, but can’t digest them; vets
often have to remove the husks using surgery.
• Keep your dog hydrated. Just like humans, dogs
dehydrate easily in heat and humidity. They need to
replenish the water they lose through panting. But, do
not let your dog drink from fountains (except special
dog fountains) or park ponds; the water may contain
algae or chemicals that are harmful. Carry water, and
encourage your dog to drink regularly. Offer extra
water to running dogs
• Seek shade. It is best to go out with your dog
before 10am or after 4pm when the day is a bit cooler
and shade easier to find. Never leave your dog in a
parked car in the sun. It only takes a few minutes for
the car interior to heat up to lethal levels. Never leave
your dog unattended, tied, even in the shade. The sun
moves, and so does its shadow! Older dogs, puppies,
dark-furred, and short-nosed dogs are all at much
greater risk for heatstroke.
• Know the signs of heat stroke. Watch for rapid
breathing and heart rate, dull-gray or pink gums
instead of red-pink gums, unusual disoriented or
disobedient behavior, or panicked expression. If any
of these symptoms occur, seek shade, ventilation, and
water immediately. Wet down your dog to the skin, but
do not submerge in ice water. Focus on wetting the
paw pads and thin-furred belly area. Seek professional
care as soon as possible. Heat stroke may progress
rapidly and can be fatal.

14 CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS
Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
By mindi rambo, National Park Service
“In the end, we will conserve only what we love. We will
only love what we understand. We will understand only
what we are taught.”
—Baba Dioum, Senegalese Poet
Without conservation, many places of cultural,
historical and natural importance can be lost to
future generations. This is why conservation is one of
the touchstones of all the National Parks of New York
Harbor parks.
Take Gateway National Recreation Area’s Jamaica
Bay Wildlife Refuge for example. Through the careful
management of the refuge, the National Park Service
hopes to preserve the greatest possible number
of plant and animal species for the enjoyment and
education of generations to come.
Visitors to Jamaica Bay can take part in programs
that explore and explain conservation issues at the
site. There are bird walks that touch on some of the
more than 300 migratory birds that use the wildlife
refuge as a stopping point. There are even nighttime
programs that allow visitors to witness the mating
tumult of the horseshoe crabs and learn more about
why these animals are important to the ecosystem.
If flowers and plants are more your speed, the refuge
offers plenty to look at and talk about.
Gateway National Recreation Area is a 26,000 acre
national park that consistently ranks among the Top
10 visited in the nation. Gateway offers programs
that speak to the park service’s conservation mission
by allowing visitors to not only learn more about ongoing
efforts but to become stewards of the park.
To learn more about stewardship and volunteer
opportunities, please call Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
at 718.318.4340.
Summer is farmers market season!
Come to 45 locations throughout
NYC and buy fresh foods straight
from the farmers who
grow, raise, bake and catch it.
For a full schedule and map, visit:
www.cenyc.org
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior

URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 15
Falconry
Design: Elizabeth Green
Photography: Rob Mastrianni
FREE FREE FREE FREE
Get WILD with the Urban Park Rangers!
Bring the whole family
See birds of prey up close and personal,
then watch their aerobatics as they soar
and dive before your eyes!
The Urban Park Rangers thank BP
for its continued support of our
Wildlife Reintroduction Program.
Visit the Ranger tent and find
out how BP and the Urban Park
Rangers brought the American
bald eagle to New York City.
City of New York
Parks & Recreation
Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor
Adrian Benepe, Commissioner
MARK
YOUR
CALENDARS
Extravaganza
SUNDAY
OCTOBER 5th, 1 PM - 3 PM
East Meadow, Central Park
(Enter park at 99th Street and 5th Avenue)

PRE-SORTED STD.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
NEW YORK, NY
PERMIT #9341
Outdoors
in New York City
N e w Y o r k C i t y D e p a r t m e n t o f P a r k s & R e c r e a t i o n
in New York City
THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMEBR 2008
To receive this publication
by e-mail or postal mail, visit
www.nycgovparks.org/rangers/contact
or call 866.692.4295 (select Option 3)
Like what you see?
City of New York
Parks & Recreation
Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor
Adrian Benepe, Commissioner
THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Outdoors
in New York City
Outdoors
OUTDOORS in New York City
is a publication of the
Urban Park Rangers,
a division of the
City of New York
Parks & Recreation
Visit our website at www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers